Scaling Responsible Artificial Intelligence Innovations for Inclusive Education in Africa

Artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to address long‑standing challenges in African education systems by improving teaching and learning, reducing administrative burdens, enabling personalized learning, and supporting inclusive education, particularly for learners with disabilities. At the same time, AI can introduce new risks or exacerbate existing inequalities if not developed and deployed responsibly. African‑led, locally grounded AI innovations are therefore essential to ensuring that AI in education is ethical, inclusive, contextually relevant, and aligned with local priorities.

Led by the African Population and Health Research Centre (APHRC), this research project aims to strengthen the evidence base on responsible AI in education in Africa and support the scaling of effective, non‑commercial AI innovations. Building on earlier work that supported eight early‑stage AI education initiatives, the project will map African‑led AI innovations, assess their impacts and risks, and identify pathways for sustainable scale. Through evidence synthesis, case study evaluations, and engagement with policymakers, educators, and innovators, the project will generate practical frameworks and policy recommendations to guide the adoption and scaling of responsible AI solutions that improve equity, learning outcomes, and education system performance.