Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer just an emerging technology; it is a transformative force, redefining the very foundations of research, education, and university administration across the globe.
For institutions of higher learning, the pivotal question is no longer if they should engage with AI, but how they can harness its potential while safeguarding academic integrity.
To this end, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) took a significant step in addressing this challenge during a stakeholder meeting held on April 24, 2025.
The meeting, convened to discuss the university’s draft AI Policy, marked a significant milestone in the institution’s ongoing commitment to integrating AI into its academic, research, and operational frameworks.
The meeting brought together scholars, policymakers, industry leaders, and legal experts, creating a collaborative platform to explore how the university can leverage AI’s capabilities while upholding ethics, equity, and educational excellence.
By proactively shaping its approach to AI, JKUAT positions itself at the forefront of innovation, signalling its readiness to lead in a rapidly evolving educational landscape.
Speaking at the event, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Academic Affairs, Prof. Robert Kinyua, underscored the importance of the meeting, describing it as a crucial step in JKUAT’s journey toward responsible AI adoption.
“This policy serves as a shared vision, uniting diverse stakeholders committed to integrating AI in ways that shape economies, redefine education, and accelerate research. Our collective focus remains on responsible AI, grounded in ethics, inclusivity, academic freedom, and trust,” said Prof. Kinyua.
He also acknowledged the vital partnerships between JKUAT and organizations such as Microsoft, government agencies, and innovation ecosystems, noting their instrumental role in preparing Kenya’s workforce for an AI-driven future.
Dr. Agnes Mindila, Director of the School of Computing and Information Technology (SCIT) presented the draft AI Policy, which has been under development since 2024. She emphasized that the policy would serve as a comprehensive framework to guide decision-making on AI integration across teaching, research, administration, and innovation.
“The framework ensures AI adoption aligns with principles of transparency, ethics, and equity. By equipping students, faculty, and staff with AI literacy, we are preparing them for a rapidly evolving world where AI plays a central role,” Dr. Mindila explained.
Once implemented, the policy is expected to position JKUAT as a leader in AI-driven education, fostering dynamic learning environments, advancing cutting-edge research, and building a workforce ready to thrive in an AI-powered future.
