THE High Commission of India in the country has underscored the critical role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in bridging Africa’s digital divide and empowering diplomats with advanced tools to navigate the complexities of global diplomacy.

Bishwadip Dey, the High Commissioner of India to Tanzania, made these remarks in Dar es Salaam on Wednesday at a special reception and talk on the use of Artificial Intelligence in Diplomacy.

The envoy emphasised AI’s growing influence in international relations, praising the technology for its ability to enhance decision-making processes and deepen understanding of global dynamics. He acknowledged the event’s importance in equipping diplomats with the knowledge to leverage AI’s capabilities for more effective diplomacy.

The event featured distinguished professors from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras, who shared insights into AI’s potential to transform diplomacy.

Prof. Raghunathan Rengaswamy, Dean of Global Engagement at IIT Madras, highlighted the emerging role of AI in international relations, pointing to its potential in analytical decision-making and offering diplomats advanced tools for better-informed global negotiations.

Additionally, Prof. Preeti Aghalayam, Director of IIT Madras Zanzibar, briefed attendees on the opportunities available for African students at the newly established IIT Madras Zanzibar campus. She highlighted programmes in cutting-edge fields like Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, and Ocean Structures, inviting diplomats to encourage students from their respective countries to enrol and benefit from high-quality education in these emerging fields.

Mwanakhamis Adam Ameir, Deputy Principal Secretary of Zanzibar’s Ministry of Education, shared the government’s strategic vision for IIT Madras Zanzibar, positioning it as a pan-African educational hub. She invited ambassadors to visit the campus and promote student enrolment, further cementing the institution’s role in shaping Africa’s technological future.

The event also saw the introduction of the 'Airtel Africa Fellowship', announced by Charles Kamoto, Managing Director of Airtel Tanzania. The fellowship aims to advance educational excellence and digital innovation across Africa, offering support to students at IIT Madras Zanzibar.

The event received positive feedback from participants, many of whom expressed enthusiasm about the potential for collaboration with IIT Madras Zanzibar. The ambassadors and diplomats recognised the importance of AI in addressing global challenges and enhancing Africa’s role in the future of diplomacy.

This reception marked a significant step towards fostering stronger educational and diplomatic ties between India and Africa, with AI at the forefront of this evolving partnership.