AfroGAIN investigates how political, socio-cultural and ethical processes shape AI governance and what this means for balancing innovation and ethics in Ghana and South Africa. The need for this research is built on AI as a ‘double-edged sword’ that can help meet Africa's development aspirations while possessing potential risks such as algorithmic biases and human rights concerns. Critics also point to AI's possible negative geopolitical impacts on the continent, particularly as major powers, including the US, EU, and China, compete to establish partnerships within Africa’s AI ecosystems, each promoting different standards.
While many African countries have been governing AI as a priority, there is limited research on the motivations and politics behind actively pursuing AI governance, including values, themes, principles, and ethics embedded in the frameworks. With qualitative and quantitative evidence from South Africa and Ghana, this research will unpack how AI is building governance processes, how it is envisioned, and the role of local and transnational actors in influencing AI approaches on the continent.
It aligns with Irish Aid priorities and the UN SDGs by accessing political and sociocultural processes in AI to enhance employment opportunities, promote innovation and build resilient infrastructure. AfroGAIN will also chart a path to ethical AI by examining governance frameworks that maximise AI potential and risks in line with the European Commission’s Sustainable Strategy for AI. It will create new knowledge and address identified gaps in AI ethics, technology politics, global development, and cultural studies.
Through practical and hands-on training at the University of Galway, the applicant will develop advanced knowledge in AI governance and methodologies and transferable skills in grant writing, project management, networking, and pedagogy, preparing him for a tenure-track post at an Irish university.
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