Rise of the Machines: African Students Fear AI Will Steal Their Jobs

Some African University students have voiced concern over the growing adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) and its potential impact on their job prospects. They argue that unchecked AI could worsen the continent’s unemployment problem.

A recent report indicates that students want African governments to regulate AI to protect human labor from displacement. This call comes as both governments and private companies increasingly adopt AI, and continental bodies like the African Union (AU) encourage its use to boost local economies.

One student quoted in The Citizen report believes AI is already rendering many students redundant before graduation. Another student foresees a future where humans compete with machines for jobs. However, robotics expert Eric Daimler, a U.S. Presidential Fellow in Machine Intelligence and Robotics, cautioned against curtailing AI.

Daimler argued that a globalized world necessitates embracing new technologies. While governments have a role in protecting individuals, excessive job protection could hinder progress. He emphasized the rapid advancement of automation.

“We live in a global world, and we are all competing globally. Whether we like it or not, we have to embrace these new technologies. Governments have a role in protecting individuals, but the more they protect jobs, the worse it will be. Automation is advancing rapidly,” Daimler said.

Emeka Akaezuwa, a professor and vice chancellor at the International University of East Africa (IUEA), argued that while AI is likely to eliminate some jobs, it will also create new ones. With proper regulation, Akaezuwa noted, AI and human labor can coexist. He added:

Our [Tanzanian] government should automate tasks that people cannot or do not want to do. Introducing AI will boost production, and we will become wealthier by exporting more. There are many opportunities we should embrace.