Professor Mondo Kagonyera, the former Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, has warned Ugandans about the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) during his speech at Kampala International University’s 30th Graduation Ceremony.
Professor Kagonyera cautioned that if mishandled, this new technological tool could lead to the destruction of society. However, if used properly and for the right purposes, AI has the potential to advance society.
At the ceremony, which was also attended by the Minister of ICT and National Guidance, Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, Professor Kagonyera expressed his hope that the Ministry would take a keen interest in guiding Ugandans, especially the youth, on how to use AI effectively.
“AI is a double-edged sword. If used carefully, it can advance your welfare, and the world will benefit. However, if mishandled, it can cause destruction. That’s why I believe Dr. Baryomunsi is an important guest, and I hope he’ll discuss AI,” he said.
Additionally, Professor Kagonyera urged the graduands to apply the knowledge they acquired from their studies. The distinguished veterinary doctor and politician emphasized that knowledge has the power to privilege individuals and should be used to improve the communities of those who have acquired it.
When Dr. Baryomunsi addressed the hundreds of graduands, he expressed his pride in the NRM’s achievements in education. He revealed that at the time the current regime came into power, there was only one university—Makerere University. He expressed happiness that there are now over 50 universities, both private and public, with KIU ranking among the top two.
The Minister further stated, “As a government, we are duty-bound to invest in the young population in order to harness this demographic dividend and turn the large population into an asset for the country, rather than letting it become a burden. That’s why we invest in education.”
Moreover, the Minister said that for education to improve today, technology must be embraced. Through AI, for instance, lectures can be delivered without human involvement. The government is currently working on drafting a policy on AI.
It should be noted that Artificial Intelligence is a rapidly advancing technological tool that has swept across the globe. Most tasks that previously took humans a long time to accomplish can now be completed in seconds.
