Inside Zetech University's plan to integrate artificial intelligence into teaching

Zetech University has partnered with a South African university as it seeks to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) in teaching and research.

The development comes after the private university in Kiambu County secured an AI study research grant from National Research Foundation of South Africa in conjunction with Rhodes University.

The partnership will see the two universities collaborate in a knowledge exchange programme aimed at exploring the legitimacy of using AI as an academic tool.

The prestigious knowledge interchange and collaboration grant is from the National Research Foundation of South Africa.

According to Zetech University Dean School of ICT, Media and Engineering Dr Benjamin Muindi, their research seeks to understand how students and faculty employ AI in teaching and research, while also examining its legitimacy as an academic tool.

The study will be conducted in South African and Kenyan universities in collaboration with Dr Chikezie Uzuegbunam, a senior lecturer at Rhodes University.

“This comparative study aligns seamlessly with Zetech University’s core value of innovation and the strategic objective to strengthen research through partnerships with leading institutions like Rhodes University,” said Dr Muindi.

For her part, Zetech Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academics, Research and Student Affairs Prof Alice Njuguna said the cross-border collaboration reinforces the university's commitment to addressing global challenges through evidence-based research and strategic partnerships.

“This is a step forward in positioning Zetech University as a leader in research and technology on the African continent,” said Prof Njuguna.

Recently, the university introduced postgraduate programs in Computer Science and Information Technology, alongside collaborations with global tech leaders like Microsoft, ADC and International Association of Science Parks (IASP) to further research and develop the tech talent in the region.

The shift to online platforms and AI-driven processes is the new reality with even the employment landscape undergoing drastic transformation with the rise of AI being the main influence.

AI has emerged as a powerful tool in reshaping industries and offering new avenues for income generation.

Recent statistics reveal that more than half of businesses and organisations are already leveraging AI tools to streamline their operations.

Subsequently, this presents an opportunity for graduates to break away from the traditional job-seeking approach and explore the immense possibilities AI offers.

AI tools such as ChatGPT, Canva, ClickUp, Grammarly and Amazon have revolutionised the way freelancers and young entrepreneurs work.

The tools empower individuals to embrace self-employment, providing a path to significant earnings without the constraints of conventional office jobs.

Zetech University is known for its dedication to advancing technology and fostering inclusive digital solutions through its innovation hub, Izethub.