How can technology shape the future of education in Africa? Infinix, in collaboration with UNESCO and Google, has taken a significant step toward answering this question.
By organizing the largest CogLabs workshop to date at the University of Nairobi, they have paved the way for over 200 students to dive into the world of AI and robotics.
This initiative, themed “Get in Now,” is set to revolutionize education by providing hands-on experiences in cutting-edge technology.
The CogLabs Initiative: Making AI Accessible
The CogLabs project aims to democratize AI and robotics education, ensuring that today’s youth have the tools to innovate and thrive.
Participants at the workshop designed and built robots using 3D-printed parts and second-hand phones, learning to program them to recognize images, sounds, and poses.
This practical approach emphasizes sustainability and provides the necessary support to guide users through the learning process.
- Participants designed robots using 3D-printed parts and second-hand phones.
- Students learned to program robots for image, sound, and pose recognition.
- The initiative emphasizes sustainable design and practical skills.
A Collaborative Effort for Technological Advancement
Michael Zeng, Brand Manager of Infinix Kenya, highlighted the importance of this collaboration, stating,
“It is a true honor for Infinix to collaborate with UNESCO and Google in globally promoting the CogLabs project.”
“This project is designed to build capacity in crucial domains such as robotics, machine learning, and AI, with a focus on education equality, to transform knowledge into resilient ownership and foster sustainable development.”
Largest CogLabs Workshop Yet
The workshop at the University of Nairobi marked a significant milestone as the largest CogLabs event ever. Students engaged in hands-on activities, building robots from scratch and programming them to perform tasks like recognizing arrows and moving accordingly.
This hands-on learning not only sparked curiosity but also provided valuable skills in coding, machine learning, and AI recognition processes.
- Held at the University of Nairobi, the largest CogLabs workshop yet.
- Over 200 students participated in building and programming robots.
- Hands-on activities provided practical skills in AI and robotics.
Launch of the CogLabs Mobile App
In addition to the workshop, the event also featured the preview of the new CogLabs mobile application.
John Kimani, Head of Developer Relations, Sub-Saharan Africa, Google, shared,
“Google’s emphasis on promoting digital literacy and making learning accessible to all aligns perfectly with the CogLabs mission.”
“This mobile application will empower everyone to explore the world of machine learning and programming, ensuring equal opportunities for all to create their own robotic wonders.”
Expanding AI Education Across Africa
Infinix plans to extend the CogLabs initiative across various African countries, offering primary, secondary, and tertiary students opportunities to engage with advanced technologies.
The company’s commitment to localizing AI education is evident in their efforts to support African languages through specialized R&D centers and dedicated linguists.
- Infinix to organize CogLabs workshops across Africa.
- Focus on localizing AI education to support African languages.
- Specialized R&D centers employ over 120 linguists for language development.
Inspiring Future Innovators
As Infinix, UNESCO, and Google continue to foster technological education in Africa, the CogLabs initiative stands as a beacon of inspiration.
By empowering today’s youth with the knowledge and skills in AI and robotics, they are opening doors to a brighter future.
The theme “Get in Now” encapsulates the essence of this transformative project, encouraging young minds to embrace the possibilities of technology.
Sources: THX News, JLL, App Inventiv, BuiltIn, NAR, Associated Press & Infinix Mobility.
