Tech and Taste: JHUB Africa hosts an AI Safari – Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology

*Volunteers from PLP assist a participant in setting up her computer during the coding session.*

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming our world, becoming an inseparable part of daily life. Rather than resisting this shift, the best approach is to embrace AI and harness its potential responsibly.

This vision came to life at the AI Safari: Coffee and Code event, held on May 28, 2025, in a collaboration between JHUB Africa at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology and the Power Learn Project (PLP). The gathering brought together tech enthusiasts to explore AI, foster networking, and develop creative solutions for the future.

*Mr. Simon Gatimu strategic and partnerships lead at JHUB Africa.*

Shadrach Kiprotich from Microsoft kicked off the session by introducing Copilot Studio, a cutting-edge tool for building custom AI agents. He demonstrated how to create and customize these agents using natural language prompts and integrated knowledge sources. Participants then brainstormed practical AI applications, ranging from procurement automation to investment advisors and health management systems.

The highlight of the event was a hands-on exercise, where attendees built and tested their own AI agents. One focal project was a job application agent, designed to streamline the hiring process. Initially, the system only retrieved job listings, but discussions revealed the need for deeper functionality, such as accessing user data and adapting to different job platforms’ application structures. Participants were tasked with refining their agents over the next few weeks, using test accounts and demo websites.

*Shadrack Kiprotich from Microsoft guiding the students on Copilot AI agents.*

Throughout the session, critical insights emerged, including the differences between classic and generative AI orchestration, the role of APIs (Application Programming Interface) in seamless data integration, and strategies for deploying AI copilots across platforms like WhatsApp. Attendees were also encouraged to document their progress on professional networks like LinkedIn to foster collaboration and visibility.

Simon Gatimu, JHUB Africa’s Strategic Partnerships Lead, emphasized the event’s significance:

“We’re thrilled to partner with PLP on this initiative, as it aligns with our mission to nurture young innovators. Events like this bridge ideas and execution, empowering entrepreneurs to turn visions into impactful projects,” said Mr.Gatimu.

Over 400 participants attended the event from universities including: JKUAT, Zetech, Egerton, Kabarak, Kirinyaga, Mount Kenya, and University of Nairobi.