The Artificial Intelligence Institute of South Africa is the brainchild of the Department Of Communications and Digital Technologies (DCDT), the University of Johannesburg and the Tshwane University of Technology. It was founded upon the vision set out by the Presidential Commission on the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) PC4IR, that reported its findings in 2019, one of which was the creation of an AI Institute for South Africa. The institute positions itself as an adjacent innovation engine for public and private sectors. It will generate knowledge and applications that will position South Africa as a competitive player in the global artificial intelligence (AI) space.
Honourable Minister Khumbudzo Ntshavheni – Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies at the launch event
AI is the most transformative tool of our era. Its applications are ubiquitous across all sectors, enhancing production and services like never before. AI might be poised to take over roles occupied by people, but the technology has the potential to actually enhance industry and address unemployment. It presents South Africa with the opportunity to re-skill the labour force for a digital future, whereby working collaboratively with machines will be the norm.
The opening ceremony was attended by;
- His Excellency Cyril Ramaphosa – President of the Republic of South Africa
- Honourable Minister Khumbudzo Ntshavheni – Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies
- Professor Tshilidzi Marwala – Vice-Chancellor of the University of Johannesburg
- Professor Tinyiko Maluleke – Vice-Chancellor of the Tshwane University of Technology
- Ms. Nonkqubela Jordan-Dyani – Acting Director-General: Department of Communications and Digitial Technologies
- Professor Letlhokwa Mpedi – Vice-Chancellor (Designate): University of Johannesburg
- Professor Tinyiko Maluleke – Vice-Chancellor of the Tshwane University of Technology
The two founding AI Hubs were represented by
- University of Johannesburg AI Hub – Professor Babu Paul – Director: Institute of Intelligent Systems & Professor Ajit Jaokar
- Tshwane University of Technology AI Hub – Doctor Vathi Papu-Zamxaka – Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research, Innovation & Engagement
The following catalytic projects will be launched by the University of Johannesburg AI Hub
- AI for Mining Industry
- The Government Cloud
- AI Capacity Building for Public Servants
- AI Motor Industry Infrastructure Enhancement Programme
- AI Biometric System
- Criminal Justice System Development
- Modernising Public Services
- Coal Renewal Programme
- AI in Farming and Food Production
The following catalytic projects will be launched by the University of Tshwane University of Technology AI Hub
- 4IR in manufacturing (value chain)
- Healthcare
- Agriculture 5.0
About SAAIA
The South African Artificial Intelligence Association (SAAIA) is an industry body focused on promoting the advancement of responsible AI in South Africa by uniting practitioners across Commercial, Government, Academic, Startup and NGO sectors. SAAIA seeks to encourage stakeholders in the adoption of responsible AI for the commercial and societal benefit of the citizens of South Africa with a primary focus on economic growth, trade, investment, equality and inclusivity. Learn more at https://saaiassociation.co.za/
Press & Media Enquiries : enquiries@saaiassociation.co.za
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