During the High-Level Forum on Artificial Intelligence in Rabat, experts emphasized the importance of AI for sustainable development in Africa. Held under the High Patronage of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, this three-day event, organized by Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P) and UNESCO, brought together representatives from over 30 countries. Chakib Benmoussa, Minister of National Education, stressed the impact of AI in education and other sectors. Mohamed Methqal highlighted Morocco’s role in promoting AI, while Amal El Fallah Seghrouchni advocated for trustworthy AI in Africa.
The forum also saw the signing of a partnership agreement to launch “AI Movement,” the first Category II AI Center in Africa. This center, established in March 2021 by UM6P, aims to be a regional AI hub, recognized for its excellence in data science and AI on the African continent.
**AI and Education**
AI can transform education by assisting teachers and providing innovative educational tools. Ms. Seghrouchni emphasized the importance of AI in redefining educational tasks, reversing the task pyramid, and initiating systemic transformation.
**AI Governance**
Strong governance of AI is essential to address ethical and regulatory challenges. “AI Movement” proposes an integrated approach to maximize the impact of AI, focusing on training, research, innovation, and international collaborations.
**Forum Objectives**
The Forum aims to assess the development of AI in Africa, consider AI governance according to African priorities, support a common strategy for AI, and launch initiatives to strengthen the capacities of the public sector, judiciary, legislature, youth, and women.
This conclave highlights Africa’s commitment to integrating AI into its sustainable development strategies, making technological innovation a key pillar for the continent’s future.