Wits University unveils MIND Institute

Wits University announced the launch of the Machine Intelligence and Neural Discovery (MIND) Institute on 19 November, a pioneering research hub dedicated to advancing the fundamental science of artificial intelligence (AI).

This innovative institute aims to explore the intricacies of machine, human, and animal intelligence, positioning itself as a leader in AI research across Africa. The Wits MIND Institute is set to push the boundaries of AI research by fostering interdisciplinary collaboration among experts from diverse fields, including computer science, psychology, philosophy, and neuroscience.

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Benjamin Rosman, the institute’s director, emphasised its unique focus. “While many institutions concentrate on AI applications, we are committed to understanding and advancing the fundamental science of AI itself.”

A distinctive feature of the institute is its holistic approach to studying intelligence. The institute seeks to answer critical questions about the processes underlying intelligence across different entities – humans, animals, and machines.

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Rosman stated, “We are examining intelligence from every angle, exploring how different beings interact and how we can draw inspiration from natural intelligence to create more efficient machines.”

The inaugural Fellows Programme has selected 34 experts from various disciplines to drive the institute’s mission, engaging in workshops and collaborative gatherings aimed at fostering scientific discovery and innovation.
“With the Wits MIND Institute, we are not trying to think outside the box, but rather to take a box, fill it with really smart people, shake it and see what happens.”

It will run deep-dive workshops, seminars, talks, and regular gatherings where the Fellows can interact, find synergies and drive scientific discovery and innovation. “By creating a space for these cross-disciplinary interactions, it will aim to supercharge AI research in entirely new directions.”

To support these efforts, the institute plans to appoint new AI Research Chairs across Wits University’s five faculties. This initiative will help to channel fundamental research into practical applications across multiple fields, ensuring that the institute’s discoveries benefit various sectors of society.

The institute will also focus on developing technologies that address Africa’s unique challenges.

Collaborating with industry partners, the institute aims to create high-value innovations in sectors such as drug discovery, education, and engineering. Dr Charity Wayua, the director of IBM Research Africa, noted the importance of this collaboration, stating, “Our partnership underscores the significance of fundamental AI research that reflects Africa’s unique needs and values.”

Committed to exploring the ethical and policy implications of AI, the institute includes philosophers and ethicists to ensure that AI development is safe and inclusive.

Professor Zeblon Vilakazi, the vice-chancellor of Wits University, noted the institute’s role in the global AI landscape, asserting that it would help ensure Africa had a seat at the global AI table.

With these initiatives, the institute is poised to lead Africa in shaping the future of artificial intelligence.

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