The Rise of Artificial Intelligence in Africa
In the heart of Rabat, Morocco, the Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P) has established a cutting-edge research center dedicated to artificial intelligence (AI). Since its inception in 2021, this innovative hub has played a pivotal role in fostering the technological revolution sweeping across Africa. The center, known as Ai Movement, is designed to serve as a regional anchor point for developing AI technologies that are not only tailored to the needs of Morocco but also address broader challenges faced by the African continent.
As visitors arrive at the campus via golf carts, they are greeted by a striking rectangular building topped with a futuristic dome, symbolizing the forward-thinking approach of the institution. Btissam El Khamlichi, the director of Ai Movement, emphasizes the purpose of the facility: "We provide spaces for learning and conferences, featuring two main amphitheaters. Here, our mission is to cultivate AI solutions that are locally developed and specifically targeted to solve regional issues, even if they may not have universal financial appeal. This focus on local development is essential for our success."
Social Impact and Educational Initiatives
The Ai Movement center is home to a dedicated team of seven researchers and 34 doctoral candidates, all striving to create solutions for a diverse array of societal challenges, including inequality, sustainable urban development, and cultural heritage preservation. One notable project is the TarjWomen application, designed for women who are illiterate. This innovative tool allows users to scan documents with their smartphones, providing audible interpretations rather than mere readings. For instance, if a user scans a train ticket, the app will inform her of the necessary travel details, such as, "Madam, you need to travel from point A to point B to arrive on time."
Furthermore, the center collaborates with companies eager to co-develop AI solutions while also offering training programs. Reda El Marhouch, a doctoral student, describes how the center utilizes a small robot to teach AI principles in an engaging manner, particularly to children. This initiative is part of their junior master's program aimed at educating the youth about technology. "By introducing obstacles to the robot's path, children learn to adapt and customize their programming, fostering creativity and critical thinking skills," he explains.
In 2023, Ai Movement received a budget of 3.5 million euros, with approximately one-third of the funding provided by OCP Group, a leading Moroccan fertilizer company. This financial support underscores the commitment of both the academic and business communities to harness AI for the betterment of society.
As reported by rfi.fr.
