The Universities Fund, in partnership with Intel Kenya, successfully organized a transformative training session for university Vice Chancellors and Finance Officers, focusing on the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into financial jurisprudence. The event that took place at the Fairmont Norfolk Hotel, Nairobi was attended by senior representatives, including the CEO of the Universities Fund, Intel Kenya representatives, university leaders from across Kenya, finance officers, and staff from the Universities Fund.

In his opening remarks, the CEO of the Universities Fund, Mr. Geoffrey Monari emphasized the importance of leveraging AI to enhance the Fund’s core functions and empower universities to achieve financial independence. He highlighted that the discussions were pivotal for securing Kenya’s future by elevating its universities to globally competitive institutions.

Participants engaged in a collaborative exercise to define AI, describing it as “efficient and smart.” However, they also voiced concerns about AI potentially overtaking human capabilities, its intrusive nature, and risks to data security.

The training also featured a detailed session by the lead trainer Ms, Susan Mbogo, who debunked several myths about AI and explained its history, dating back to 1956. She highlighted AI’s value in driving monetary benefits, democratizing access, and creating transformational change. She encouraged universities to take the lead in developing smart city solutions and urged Vice Chancellors to nominate one lecturer from each institution to receive specialized AI training.

Participants discussed the pressing challenges universities face and explored strategies to leverage AI in addressing these issues, positioning the institutions for innovation and sustainability.