Across Africa, universities are quickly recognising the transformative potential and pressing challenges of integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI). AI offers significant promise, from enabling personalized student experiences at scale to addressing administrative inefficiencies and equipping graduates with relevant skills. However, for many institutions on the continent, responsibly integrating AI remains complex and unclear.

A new joint research initiative led by Qatar Foundation’s World Innovation Summit for Education (WISE), in partnership with  the Education Collaborative at Ashesi University, aims to provide important insights. The initiative, in collaboration with AfriLabs and Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P), will offer universities actionable roadmaps for AI integration, grounded in evidence directly collected from campuses across Africa.

“Universities globally are embracing AI,” says Rose Dodd, Executive Director of the Education Collaborative. “However, Africa faces unique complexities around infrastructure, data, and resource gaps. Our goal is to provide practical, tailored guidance that reflects these realities.”

Central to this initiative is a comprehensive exploration of AI adoption at over 50 African universities, engaging students, faculty, and administrators. Researchers will evaluate policy readiness, infrastructure capabilities, and perceptions among faculty and students toward emerging AI tools.

AfriLabs, a network of technology and innovation hubs, will simultaneously map AI-driven educational technology startups, assessing their products’ suitability and scalability for African campuses.

“African entrepreneurs are innovating solutions that are often more relevant and adaptable than global off-the-shelf products,” adds Dodd. “By also identifying and connecting these startups with universities, we can drive local innovation into higher education.”

Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P) in Morocco will serve as the project’s living laboratory. UM6P’s successful deployment of campus-wide AI tools like ChatGPT-Edu—and measurable insights into student engagement and administrative efficiency that it provides—will bring critical insights into governance, data privacy, training, and cost management.

WISE, known for convening global education expertise, will amplify the research outcomes, facilitating wider adoption through engagement with education leaders, policymakers, and global institutions. As part of this outreach, WISE will host events at UM6P’s Deep Tech Summit, the Education Collaborative’s 2025 June Convening, and WISE12.

University leaders, startups, and policymakers are invited to actively participate, shaping research outcomes that directly address institutional priorities.

“Ultimately,” concludes Dodd, “our ambition is to establish a clear, practical framework that ensures AI amplifies education across Africa—transforming challenges into sustainable opportunities.”