The recent growth of artificial intelligence (AI) across the globe and Africa in particular has captured the interest of entrepreneurs, policymakers and tech developers around the continent. This new technology has the potential to transform the society, drive economic growth and easy access to information. United nations development program (UNPD) report, shows optimism about AI. Saying it will contribute significant growth to Africa economy if Africa enterprises “could capture” the endless opportunities in AI and taking it global. “$1.5 trillion will be injected to Africa’s economy which represents 50% of Africa’s 2024 GDP, if African businesses could capture 10% of the global AI Market.” UNDP.
However Following the wave of AI across Africa; Nigeria the giant of Africa is not left out, recently an indigenous tech company ‘bildup’ located in Enugu state, led by Chibuike Aguene, on the 27th of august unveils the nations first indigenous AI technology software BILDUP.
Bildup an AI-powered learning companion designed to support students, parents, and teachers, helps learners master subjects at their own pace, while giving parents and educators real-time insights into progress and performance. Both at home or in school, Bildup AI makes learning more engaging, personalized, and effective.
Bildup founder at the launching of the AI software said: The development was achieved through collaborations with Nigerian engineers, educational experts, and government partners with the purpose of creating home-grown solutions for education and digital learning. “by Nigerians, for Nigerians,” Mr chibuike said to attendee of the event.
Harnessing AI for education
The recent software Bildup AI creates a unique learning path for each student based on their curriculum, performance, and learning style. As the student interacts with Bildup AI – asking
questions, completing tasks, or reviewing lessons the AI continuously adjusts the content and approach to ensure the learning experience stays relevant, challenging, and supportive.
Vivian a high school student says her confidence has been over the moon since she started using the AI for learning mathematics, saying she can now “tackle maths problems”
“With Bildup AI guided practice and engaged learning, my maths understanding improved so much. Now i feel confident and can tackle maths problems at my grade level!” She said.
Local Ai: A new frontier
The federal ministry of communications, innovation and digital economy recently outlined a National AI strategy, with the aim of positioning Nigeria as a giant in Africa technology revolution.
Dr. Bosun Tijani, the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy says Nigeria model involves collaborating with local and international experts to develop technologies that will solve the nation direct needs and challenges. “The National AI Strategy was developed through a collaborative process involving government, academia, and industry. Nigeria’s approach to AI strategy development is unique and has garnered international recognition.The country’s model involves identifying and engaging with Nigerian researchers and experts in AI, both locally and internationally, to develop a comprehensive strategy that addresses the nation’s specific needs and challenges,” he said. Reports from the national Ai strategy suggests that locally designed AI solutions adapts to local realities are by far equipped to solving local challenges than externally enveloped technologies created for an entirely different people. Aguene founder of bildup AI described the AI startup as a breakthrough, designed to redefine education in Nigeria and Africa at large. “This is the first African indigenous AI technology” he said.
Potential impact on education
However,students from local schools tested the software, experiencing tailored lessons in mathematics, science, and languages during the launching. Akachukwu a collage student happily described the software as a “study buddy” highlighting its accuracy and simplicity with its “step by step” breakdown of Mathematics equations and ability to provide detailed explanations for each answer. “It’s like talking to somebody of your age group, but has better understanding of what you want to learn” she said. However she’s excited about the high insight the software provides and how it helps her achieve more understanding about any specific mathematical problems. “Basically the entire user interface is very nice it’s very supportive, colorful and very nice for assimilation. She added.
Future advancement
From mastering concepts and acing tests to building future-ready skills, Bildup AI makes learning smarter, faster, and fun. Bildup a pioneer in leveraging AI integration in transforming education in Africa, empowering learners to overcome limitations and unlock their full potential. creates a unique learning path for each student based on their curriculum, performance, and learning style. As the student interacts with Bildup AI – asking questions, completing tasks, or reviewing lessons – the AI continuously adjusts the content and approach to ensure the learning experience stays relevant, challenging, and supportive. Officials from the ministry of communications, innovation and digital economy praised the innovation said it will offer “solutions” to many “home-grown” challenges in educational sectors across the Africa. “a model for home-grown solutions to Africa’s educational challenges”. They noted. Also Lacey a high school student said the innovation has made her study easier highlighting that the AI answers any question with clear and concise explanations. I don’t need to browse through lots of textbooks to find answers, now i can ask Bildup study buddy anything, and it explains things in a way i truly understand” she said.
Nwali Chidozie Michael
