In a momentous event marking a significant leap forward for Africa’s technological landscape, the African Intelligence Club was officially launched on January 28, 2024.
Spearheaded by visionary student at the McKinley Technology High School in Washington DC, Efraim Weaver, the club aims to empower African youth and its diaspora through the transformative power of artificial intelligence (AI) and computer science.
The launch ceremony, held in collaboration with Al-Rayan International School, brought together esteemed guests from academia, industry, and government to celebrate the inception of this groundbreaking initiative. Ten students from five different high schools including AI-Rayan, Galaxy International School, St. Peters Mission School, Chemu Senior High, and Our Lady of Mercy Senior High School, were inducted into the club, symbolizing a diverse and inclusive approach to fostering talent and innovation.
In attendance at the launch event were the renowned Dean of Engineering School University of Ghana, Prof. Elsie Effah Kauffman, Head of technology at AI-Rayan, Nausheen Siddiqi, Chief Executive Officer of Ghana Olympiad Academy, Abel Ohene Acquaye and other industry leaders from prominent tech companies. Their presence was an emphasis on the importance of collaboration between academia, industry, and government in driving innovation and talent development.
Addressing attendees at the launch, founder and Student President of the African Intelligence Club, Efraim Weaver expressed his vision for the future, with hopes of providing African students on the continent opportunities to thrive in the field of technology.
“I believe AI can be fun while changing things for the better. We want to bring people together and provide opportunities for African students on the continent and in the diaspora.”
The club’s mission encompasses a comprehensive curriculum, including computer science classes, AI courses, and interdisciplinary studies on the impact of industrial revolutions. By providing access to global opportunities, organizing coding competitions and hackathons, and fostering social and professional networks, the African Intelligence Club aims to equip the next generation of African computer scientists with the skills and knowledge to tackle local and global challenges.
As Africa embraces the dawn of the 4th Industrial Revolution, the African Intelligence Club stands as a beacon of hope, resilience, and boundless potential. With a steadfast dedication to empowering African youth and driving technological innovation, the club is poised to make a lasting impact on Africa’s journey towards prosperity and inclusive growth.
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Story by: Michelle Lartey | univers.ug.edu.gh
