Congo launches first Artificial Intelligence research centre

Congolese Prime Minister Anatole Collinet Makosso on Thursday inaugurated the African Centre for Research in Artificial Intelligence (CARIA), the first of its kind in the country.

Located at Denis Sassou Nguesso University in Kintele, northern suburb of Brazzaville, Congolese capital, the centre sets to improve and exploit the potential of AI research and human research, to promote social and economic development in the country.

According to the Congolese authorities, at least six research projects are planned in the centre for the academic year 2022-2023, including neural network, computer vision, machine learning, virtual and augmented reality, natural language processing and robotics.

The centre, according to the Congolese Minister of Posts, Telecommunications and Digital Economy, Leon Juste Ibombo, would also improve the current landscape of AI research in Congo and Africa.

“This institution aims to undertake cutting-edge research on artificial intelligence by focusing on a human-centred approach to maximize benefits and counter development challenges,” said Ibombo.

The centre will also offer certified online training for young Africans, including an introductory program to robotics and AI through the green classroom for primary and secondary school students, said the government.

CGTN/Olajumoke Adeleke