Mams learners learn how to use AI to solve problems

The University of Pretoria’s (UP) Mamelodi campus recently hosted students from the Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) to teach local high school learners how to use artificial intelligence (AI) to create solutions to real-world problems.

Head of Community Engagement Research at Mamelodi Campus, Dr Martina Jordaan, said the Youth AI Object Recognition Programming Workshop and Learning Showcase held in January represents an exciting collaboration between the Department of Computing and the Service-Learning and Leadership Office at the Hong Kong Polytechnic University, and UP Mamelodi.

Jordaan said this initiative was designed to raise awareness among 107 local learners about the challenges posed by the information and digital divide, and to promote STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) literacy, which is increasingly crucial in today’s technology-driven society.

During the four-day programme, PolyU students imparted their knowledge of machine learning and block programming to their younger peers in Mamelodi, with a focus on using AI to enhance accessibility for people with visual impairments.

Throughout the programme, participants had the opportunity to develop special AI solutions to address daily challenges faced by visually impaired individuals.

“To enhance engagement and create a stimulating learning environment, PolyU students coordinated fun, interactive activities designed to foster creativity and encourage participants to think outside the box while working on their prototypes,” said Jordaan.

Teams showcased their innovative projects at the end of the workshop, competing for awards that recognised their collaborative efforts in designing the most appealing and functional assistive technology.

He said the projects were evaluated based on their creativity, usability, and potential impact, with the best solutions honoured for their exceptional promise to improve the daily lives of visually impaired people within the community.

Jordaan said the partnership with PolyU began in 2021, making this the fifth workshop that university had conducted and the second one hosted face-to-face.

“The feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive,” she said.

Lovenees Mufiri, a Grade 11 learner from Nellmapius Secondary School, said she gained knowledge about deep learning and machine learning, and that the PolyU students inspired her to strive for greater academic success.

Thamaga Madiga, a Grade 10 learner from Hoërskool Overkruin, described the workshop as “incredibly enriching”.

She said the programme helped him think critically and expand his knowledge base.

Makubu Mahlatji, a Grade 11 learner from Hoërskool Silverton, reflected on her experience of attending all the PolyU workshops.

She said the AI object recognition programme equipped her with essential life skills such as effective collaboration, communication, and teamwork, which she had not previously seen as being important.

“This emphasis on practical skills enhances technological understanding and prepares participants for future challenges in their academic and professional lives,” Jordaan said.

“The workshop significantly contributed to bridging the digital divide in the Mamelodi community, while empowering young learners to become active participants in the evolving world of technology.”

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