Infinix, UNESCO, Google and the University of Nairobi (UoN) have hosted the largest CogLabs innovation and learning workshop at The University of Nairobi.
The one day workshop held on Friday was attended by 200 students from UoN, the project themed “Get in now” empowered the youth with Artificial Intelligence (AI) and robotics education skills.
The initiative is aimed at educating, equipping the next generation with experiences in robotics, machine learning, and AI education to shape their future.
The CogLabs project is an innovative educational initiative that aims to make AI and robotics accessible and engaging for the young people.
The students were taken through step-by-step process, on how to design and build their own robots using 3D printed parts, a second-hand phone and basic electronic parts, including training the robots to recognize images, sounds, and poses, and program them to respond and perform simple tasks.
UoN Vice Chancellor Prof Stephen Kiama said the initiative is a significant milestone for students and the future of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) education in Kenya.
In a speech read by UoN Director Corporate Affairs John Orindi the VC observed that many students experience a lot of challenges with learning STEM subjects.
One of the reasons being the misconception that the subjects are complex to understand and are only meant for a certain gender or a special category of people.
“The CogLabs workshop is where future innovators begin UON is dedicated to producing market-ready graduates who are not just job seekers, but also innovators and entrepreneurs capable of creating their own employment opportunities,” the VC said.
He noted that the current landscape demands they equip students with not only theoretical knowledge but also practical skills that will enable them to thrive in a rapidly evolving job market.
Infinix Kenya Brand Manager Michael Zeng said the 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.
Joan Nadal, Master Trainer of UNESCO at STEM Education said the project encourage and empower the next generation to embrace the transformative power of AI and robotics.
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“We are providing young learners with the tools and resources to design, build, and program their own robotic creations. This hands-on approach not only sparks their curiosity, but also equips them with the practical skills needed to thrive in the digital age,” said Nadal. The innovator added said they are training students and communities in over 25 countries worldwide.
Nadal who started by making a robot for his daughter said the innovation project is affordable as compared to other robots.
John Kimani Head of Developer Relations, Sub-Saharan Africa, Google said the multinational corporation and technology company is promoting digital literacy and making learning accessible to all aligns perfectly with the CogLabs mission.
“The mobile application will empower everyone to explore the world of machine learning and programming, without the need for a laptop, ensuring equal opportunities for all to create their own robotic wonders, wherever they may be,” Kimani said.
Infinix plans to organize a series of CogLabs workshops across various African countries, providing primary, secondary, and tertiary students with opportunities to engage in hands-on learning experiences.
The workshops will seamlessly integrate 3D printing, robot making, and basic programming knowledge, empowering the youth to explore the realms of advanced technologies.
By Obegi Malack
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