Two Kenyan firms, Jacaranda Health and EIDU, are among 21 organisations selected for Google’s Generative AI Cohort programme, a targeted initiative designed to empower organisations with over $20 million in funding to tackle global challenges.

The world of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly evolving, and its potential to address global challenges is undeniable. Generative AI, a branch of AI focusing on creating new data, is at the forefront of this progress.

Recognising this potential, Google launched its Generative AI Cohort programme, specifically targeting African organisations.

Google’s Generative AI Cohort is a noteworthy initiative. The substantial funding allocated to the programme highlights Google’s commitment to promoting social impact through AI.

The cohort includes 21 organisations from across Africa, the US, the UK, France, and Germany and aims to address key challenges in areas like climate, health, and education,showcasing the broad application of generative AI in addressing diverse challenges.

Notably, the participation of organisations beyond Africa fosters international collaboration and knowledge sharing within the field.

Jacaranda Health: Using Natural Language Processing for Digital Health Services

Jacaranda Health is using Natural Language Processing (NLP) for digital health services in low- and middle-income countries.

NLP enables Jacaranda Health to provide accurate and efficient healthcare services, including patient triage, appointment scheduling, and health education.

By using NLP, Jacaranda Health is improving the patient experience and healthcare outcomes for women and children in underserved communities.

The use of AI-based services like NLP is helping to address key challenges in healthcare delivery, including the shortage of healthcare workers and the lack of access to quality healthcare services.

EIDU: Providing Personalised Tutoring through Generative AI

EIDU is providing personalised tutoring through generative AI in low- and middle-income countries.

The platform uses AI to personalise learning based on each student’s needs, abilities, and learning style, enabling them to learn at their own pace and achieve better educational outcomes.

By using generative AI, EIDU is making education more accessible, scalable, and cost-effective. The platform is helping to address key challenges in education delivery, including the shortage of qualified teachers and the lack of access to quality education services.

Potential Concerns Related to AI Adoption

While AI adoption offers exciting possibilities for streamlining operations and enhancing services, it’s important to acknowledge potential concerns.

AI can automate tasks currently handled by humans, particularly in areas like data entry and customer service. This raises anxieties about job displacement, and responsible implementation strategies are necessary to navigate this transition.

As AI adoption continues to grow, it is essential to address these concerns through responsible AI practices and human-centred design.

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Organisations like Jacaranda Health and EIDU are taking steps to address these concerns by implementing responsible AI practices into their operations and ensuring that the technology is used to improve human capabilities, rather than replace them.

Google’s Generative AI Cohort is a game-changer for organisations using AI for social impact. By providing funding and technical support, the cohort is enabling organisations to leverage AI for social good and address key challenges in areas like healthcare and education.

While acknowledging potential job market disruptions, we must focus on responsible AI development that promotes human-AI collaboration to create a brighter future for all.