DAR ES SALAAM: TANZANIA is in the move to develop a new generation of artificial intelligence (AI) experts through strategic programmes designed to strengthen digital skills and position the country and Africa to take a greater role in the global digital revolution.
The initiatives, including the National Digital Economy Fund, the National Research Agenda and the Samia Scholarship Programme, are expanding opportunities for young Tanzanians to acquire advanced skills in data science, artificial intelligence and other emerging fields.
Speaking at the opening of the 2nd International Conference on Artificial Intelligence Advancement in the African Context (AAIAC 2026) in Dar es Salaam, Minister for Education, Science and Technology Prof Adolf Mkenda said the government had invested significantly in developing expertise in data science, AI and related disciplines.
Prof Mkenda explained that the Samia Scholarship Programme had enabled Tanzanian students to pursue advanced studies in data science, artificial intelligence and interdisciplinary sciences at universities around the world.
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“This investment in data science and artificial intelligence programmes will strengthen national capacity, contribute to Africa’s role in the digital revolution and establish a strong foundation for preparing the next generation of experts,” he said.
The minister also called on universities and other higher learning institutions to modernise their curricula and place greater emphasis on technology, innovation and practical skills.
According to him, embracing emerging technologies was essential to developing a workforce capable of adapting to a rapidly changing labour market, meeting future economic demands and supporting national development.
Meanwhile, University of Dodoma (Udom) Vice-Chancellor Prof Lughano Kusiluka said young African scientists were playing an increasingly important role in advancing artificial intelligence and challenging long-standing perceptions about Africa’s capacity for innovation.
He noted that Africa had the potential to emerge as a major force in the digital era if countries invested strategically in research, technology development and human capital.