Infinix, a leading tech brand aimed at young consumers, has spearheaded the largest CogLabs workshop to date, hosting over 200 students at the University of Nairobi.
This significant event was organized in collaboration with UNESCO and Google under the theme “Get in Now,” with the goal of advancing AI and robotics education for Africa’s youth.
The CogLabs project, an educational initiative designed to democratize AI and robotics, provided students with hands-on experiences in building and programming robots. Participants used 3D-printed parts and repurposed Infinix smartphones to create robots capable of recognizing images, sounds, and gestures, and performing basic tasks. The initiative emphasizes sustainable design and offers extensive support materials, including code files and FAQs.
Michael Zeng, Brand Manager of Infinix Kenya, expressed pride in the collaboration, stating, “This project is designed to build capacity in crucial domains such as robotics, machine learning, and AI, with a focus on education equality to transform knowledge into resilient ownership and foster sustainable development.”
Joan Nadal, Master Trainer of UNESCO at STEM Education, highlighted the project’s impact, noting, “By partnering with innovative companies like Infinix and Google, we are equipping young learners with practical skills needed to thrive in the digital age.”
The workshop, which marked the largest CogLabs event thus far, featured interactive sessions where students assembled robots and trained them to respond to various stimuli. The event also showcased a preview of the new CogLabs mobile app, designed to make machine learning and programming more accessible without requiring a laptop.
John Kimani, Head of Developer Relations at Google Sub-Saharan Africa, praised the app’s potential, stating, “Google’s emphasis on promoting digital literacy and making learning accessible aligns perfectly with the CogLabs mission.”
Infinix, a brand deeply rooted in Africa since its inception in 2013, plans to extend the CogLabs initiative across the continent. The company aims to organize similar workshops in various African countries, integrating 3D printing, robotics, and programming education to foster technological engagement among young students.
Amber Zhao, Infinix’s Product Manager of AI, highlighted the company’s commitment to regional needs, saying, “Our specialized R&D centers are dedicated to developing localized AI language models that serve the diverse linguistic needs of users across Africa.”
Infinix’s efforts are a testament to its dedication to empowering Africa’s youth through advanced technology, ensuring that future generations have the tools and knowledge to shape a brighter future.