Joshua Simuka, a Research Fellow in the School of Business and Management Sciences’ Strategy and Innovation Postgraduate Unit recently participated in the University of Johannesburg International Conference focusing on the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) applications in academia and libraries, with a specific emphasis on teaching, learning and research.

The conference was held on 11 – 12 June 2024 at the University of Johannesburg, Auckland Park Campus, and Simuka presented an academic paper titled “Exploring the Adoption of Artificial Intelligence Applications in Zimbabwe State Universities,” delving into the potential impact of AI in education. He emphasized the growing significance of AI in education and its potential to transform teaching, learning, and research in higher education institutions.

The conference encompassed themes such as ethical and responsible AI, human-AI interaction in education, AI and research, professional development in AI, student perspectives on AI, AI policy and governance in education, and global perspectives on AI in academia, research, and libraries.

In an interview, Simuka, expressed his enthusiasm for contributing to shaping the future of teaching, learning, and research in higher education through exploring the transformative potential of AI.

The discussions at the international conference revolved around the multifaceted impact of AI on teaching, learning, and research. Attendees engaged in conversations and workshops about practical implementations, shared success stories, and deliberated on the challenges and opportunities presented by AI.

Throughout the conference, the critical importance of addressing ethical issues in AI, prioritizing accessibility, and safeguarding students’ rights while using AI in education was emphasized. Furthermore, the necessity for ongoing research and monitoring to ensure the efficacy and sustainability of AI in education was highlighted.

The international conference brought together lecturers, researchers, and librarians with the aim of empowering them to navigate the evolving landscape of information and technology, ensuring that education remains at the forefront of supporting knowledge dissemination and discovery in the digital age.

Simuka’s participation in the conference underscores the growing interest and significance of AI in education and its potential to revolutionize teaching, learning, and research practices in higher education institutions.