Chongwe School to Become AI Center of Excellence
The Zambian government has announced plans to transform Katoba Secondary School in Chongwe District into a Center of Excellence for Artificial Intelligence (AI), positioning it as a hub for AI-assisted learning and technology in schools across the country. The initiative will provide a national platform to train other schools in integrating AI into the education system.
Speaking at a ceremony held at Katoba Secondary School, Technology and Science Minister Felix Mutati highlighted the government’s commitment to advancing AI in education. He announced the formation of a four-member task force to oversee the school’s transformation into an AI Center of Excellence, with the goal of spreading AI technology to schools nationwide.
“Katoba Secondary School will be at the forefront of AI in education, helping both pupils and teachers enhance the learning and teaching experience,” said Hon. Mutati. He emphasized that AI will support teachers in preparing lesson plans more efficiently and monitoring student progress, making the education system more adaptive to individual needs.
The event also saw the handover of solar panels and AI training for teachers and students at Katoba Secondary School, funded by Ecobank. The K300,000 project, including a one-year free internet subscription, is designed to provide students with access to the latest technology and a stable power supply.
Ecobank Managing Director Aina Moore, who officiated the handover, stated that the bank’s sponsorship aims to give learners access to modern educational tools. She expressed hope that the school’s AI-driven resources would set a new standard for education in the region.
Zambia Information and Communication Technology Authority (ZICTA) Acting Director General Collins Mbulo, who is part of the task force, will play a key role in guiding the school’s transformation. Local Member of Parliament Sylvia Masebo also expressed gratitude for Ecobank’s continued support, urging other organizations to contribute to community development initiatives.
“Katoba is now better equipped than many urban schools, thanks to the generosity of Ecobank and the collective efforts to ensure our children have access to modern learning tools,” Hon. Masebo said.
Ministry of Education Permanent Secretary Joe Kamoko also commended Ecobank for its dedication, marking this as the second year the bank has celebrated Ecobank Day at Katoba Secondary School, enhancing the learning environment for students.
