ECOWAS Parliament speaker, Hadja Ibrahima has advocated for a solid legal framework for artificial intelligence (AI) development in West Africa. Ibrahima stated this on Monday at a meeting of the parliament’s joint committee in Dakar, Senegal.
The theme was prioritizing education technology and innovation in the Economic Crime Commission of West African States (ECOWAS) region. According to Ibrahima, West Africa must adopt new learning models to meet global technological demands.
She shared her hopes that Dakar discussions would advocate for a legal structure and recommendation on artificial intelligence. Ibrahima emphasized that digital innovation must be prioritized for the future of West Africa, especially in education.
Also, she maintained that ECOWAS is home to a youthful and dynamic population, but faces educational challenges. According to her, traditional models of education are becoming extinct in the contemporary world.
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The speaker cited, poor infrastructure, digital inequality, and slow adoption by some member states as major problems regarding artificial intelligence. She disclosed that digital tools must be accessible for children in school for Africa to join the global knowledge economy.
She also called on member states to come up with well-defined strategies that ensure inclusive digital learning.
The speaker emphasized the importance of building a region where children can learn, grow and contribute to prosperity.
At the meeting, Senegal’s education minister Mustapha Guirassy urged Africa to lead in AI creation, not just consumption. Guirassy noted that the country considers AI a central part of its education reform, supported by new technology.
The education minister proposed an AI use ethically guided by a regional ethical charter and African language digital resources.
