Nairobi, Kenya – August 6, 2026: Leading women experts in artificial intelligence (AI), ethics, governance, research and innovation led an important conversation at the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) in South Africa on the inclusive and ethical use of artificial intelligence during an exclusive roundtable exploring how AI is reshaping education across Africa. The event brought together educators, researchers, industry leaders and technology practitioners to examine the opportunities, challenges and responsibilities that accompany the growing adoption of AI in learning environments.
Hosted by Aashna Jain, Founder and CEO of AITHOS, in collaboration with Wits MIND, the discussion centred on the theme “AI in Education: Shaping the Future of Learning in Africa.” The roundtable forms part of AITHOS’ growing pan-African dialogue series focused on ethical AI development, governance and inclusion.
Building on the momentum of a previous AITHOS forum held in Nairobi, Kenya in June 2026, the South African roundtable represents the continuation of a broader effort to ensure that African perspectives play a central role in shaping the future of artificial intelligence. Through convening experts across different countries, sectors and disciplines, AITHOS aims to create platforms where African voices are heard, represented and empowered to influence global conversations on AI policy, governance and innovation.
As artificial intelligence continues to transform economies, education systems and societies around the world, AITHOS believes that Africa must not simply adopt AI technologies developed elsewhere, but actively participate in defining the ethical frameworks, governance standards and societal values that guide their development and deployment.
Held ahead of South Africa’s National Women’s Day celebrations, the event also highlighted the significant role women are playing in shaping the future of artificial intelligence. The discussion underscored the importance of diverse leadership and inclusive participation in designing, governing and deploying AI technologies that will influence future generations of learners.
Over the course of the session, participants explored four critical themes. Discussions around AI in Classrooms and Future Skills examined how AI is changing teaching and learning practices and the competencies students will require to thrive in an increasingly digital world. Conversations on Access vs Inequality focused on the potential for AI to expand educational opportunities while acknowledging the risk of deepening existing inequalities if access gaps are not addressed. The discussion on Student Readiness and Employability considered whether current education systems are adequately preparing learners for AI-driven workplaces and how institutions can equip students with both technical and human-centred skills. Under Ethics and Governance, participants examined the safeguards, accountability measures and governance frameworks needed to ensure responsible AI adoption within educational settings.
Speaker Perspectives
Aashna Jain, Founder and CEO of AITHOS, said:
“The future of AI must be shaped by diverse voices, experiences and realities. Africa has a unique opportunity to contribute valuable perspectives on ethics, inclusion and innovation, and it is critical that these voices are represented in global conversations about AI governance. Through our forums in Nairobi, Johannesburg and beyond, AITHOS is committed to fostering meaningful dialogue that helps build a more ethical, responsible and inclusive future for artificial intelligence, both across Africa and around the world.”
As AI continues to transform education and the future of work, participants agreed that collaboration between educators, policymakers, researchers and industry leaders will be critical to ensuring that AI contributes positively to learning outcomes and future workforce readiness across Africa. The roundtable formed part of AITHOS’ ongoing commitment to promoting ethical and responsible AI, strengthening African participation in global AI discussions, and supporting the development of solutions that advance both innovation and societal impact. Through a growing series of forums across the continent, AITHOS is helping to build a community of leaders dedicated to ensuring that the future of artificial intelligence is guided by principles of fairness, accountability, inclusion and human-centred progress.
As AI continues to transform education and the future of work, participants agreed that collaboration between educators, policymakers, researchers, and industry leaders will be critical to ensuring that AI contributes positively to learning outcomes and future workforce readiness across Africa. The roundtable formed part of an ongoing commitment by AITHOS and its partners to foster dialogue on responsible AI and to support the development of solutions that advance both innovation and societal impact.
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