The Malawi University of Science and Technology (MUST) recently established the Centre for Artificial Intelligence and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics), known as CAIST, in response to the country’s growing need for technological advancements.
According to a report, several prominent American institutions, including Baylor College of Medicine, Texas Tech University, Morehouse College, Colorado University, Georgia Southern University, Clemson University, New York University, and Mercer University, collaborated to launch this center.
Malawi’s Minister of Education, Madalitso Kambauwa Wirima, who conducted the official inauguration of the AI center, recognised its crucial role in guiding the country toward the adoption of emerging technologies. While expressing confidence in the transformative possibilities of AI, Wirima also emphasised the importance of a balanced approach, taking into account potential drawbacks. She envisions CAIST as a significant contributor to the formulation of policies and regulatory structures aimed at ensuring the responsible application of AI.
Vice Chancellor Professor Mauakowa Malata emphasised the university’s dedication to harmonising its activities with a range of development initiatives. These encompass Malawi 2063, Africa Agenda 2063, and the Sustainable Development Goals, ensuring that CAIST’s initiatives provide comprehensive benefits to the nation.
Given the solid presence of AI in Malawi’s present and future, the government looks to CAIST for expertise in formulating policies that navigate the ethical intricacies of artificial intelligence, recognising its integral role in daily life.
MUST’s primary ‘Centre of Excellence’ is dedicated to driving the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) and fostering education in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics.
Michael Zimba, Malawi Institute of Technology’s director, discussed the institution’s new strategic plan (2024-2030), which prioritises technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship to contribute to Malawi’s 2063 vision of becoming a prosperous and self-reliant ‘upper middle-income country.
The opening of the CAIST Center marks a partnership between Malawi and American universities to use artificial intelligence for the country’s economic growth. As AI changes the world, Malawi is taking the lead in shaping its tech future through CAIST.
