KKCR FM
Experts Call for African-Rooted Approach to Artificial Intelligence at ARU Graduation
22 November 2025, 2:38 pm
By James Muhumuza
African scholars and development practitioners have urged the continent to redefine how it adopts Artificial Intelligence (AI), insisting that the technology must be grounded in African culture, values and indigenous knowledge systems to ensure sustainable development.
The call was made yesterday 21st November 2025 during the 11th Graduation Ceremony of African Rural University (ARU) held in Kagadi Town Council, Kagadi district, Western Uganda.
Speakers explained that while AI presents vast opportunities, it should complement rather than overshadow Africa’s long-standing traditions of community-driven problem-solving, spirituality, and cultural wisdom.
Speaking as the chief guest, Dr. Robert Jjuuko a lecturer at Gulu University, noted that although AI promises efficiency and innovation, it differs significantly from indigenous knowledge, which is relational, value-centered and deeply rooted in lived human experience.
He encouraged graduates to take charge of their future, saying they are “the authors of their own destiny.”
Dr. Jjuuko cautioned that AI could become harmful if adopted without ethical consideration.
He contrasted the empathy, spirituality and communal well-being embedded in African knowledge systems with the cold, logic-driven nature of artificial systems.
He called on African institutions to ensure that technology is applied in ways that reflect local cultural realities.
He further warned that Africa risks crisis if it embraces AI without anchoring it in indigenous values and community-based wisdom.
Representing the ARU Chancellor, Justice Muhanguzi, the Vice Chancellor, Dr. Mwalimu Musheshe, reaffirmed that community-based research and culture-led innovation are essential for true and lasting transformation.
He revealed that ARU and URDT have expanded their outreach to 20 districts since 2021, training over 70,000 young people in practical, life-changing skills.
Several graduates also shared their experiences integrating AI tools in community work.
Grace Acio who completed a Bachelor of Science in Sustainable Agriculture, said AI has improved crop management, enabled early detection of pests and diseases and boosted farm productivity especially in areas where extension workers are scarce.
