Kenyatta University has established a new School of Artificial Intelligence and Data Science, positioning itself at the forefront of technology education in East Africa as demand for qualified AI professionals continues to surge across the continent.
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Paul K. Wainaina, CBS, announced the establishment of the new school during a special senate sitting on May 20, 2025. The school — a first of its kind at a public university in Kenya — will be housed within the School of Pure and Applied Sciences and will begin enrolling students from September 2025 for both undergraduate and postgraduate programmes.
Why Artificial Intelligence and Data Science?
Africa's digital economy is projected to contribute up to $180 billion to the continent's GDP by 2025, yet the demand for qualified AI and data science professionals far exceeds the current supply. Kenya alone requires an estimated 20,000 technology specialists annually, with particular shortages in machine learning engineering, data analytics, and AI systems design.
"The establishment of this school is a direct response to the needs of our economy and society," said Prof. Wainaina. "Artificial intelligence is no longer the future — it is the present. Our graduates must be equipped to lead Kenya's AI transformation, not merely consume it."
Programmes to be Offered
| Programme | Level | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| BSc Artificial Intelligence | Undergraduate | 4 Years |
| BSc Data Science and Analytics | Undergraduate | 4 Years |
| MSc Artificial Intelligence | Postgraduate | 2 Years |
| MSc Data Science | Postgraduate | 2 Years |
| PhD in AI and Machine Learning | Doctoral | 3–5 Years |
Infrastructure and Partnerships
The university has invested Ksh 120 million in GPU-equipped computing laboratories, high-performance data servers, and cloud computing infrastructure to support the new school. KU has also signed memoranda of understanding with Google Kenya, Microsoft Africa, IBM Africa, and the Kenya ICT Authority to provide internship placements, software licenses, and joint research opportunities for students.
"This is about building an entire ecosystem," said Prof. Mathew Piero Ngugi, Dean of the School of Pure and Applied Sciences. "Our students will have access to real industry data, mentorship from practicing data scientists, and a direct pathway into employment at Kenya's leading technology firms."
About the School of Pure and Applied Sciences
The School of Pure and Applied Sciences (SPAS) is the scientific heart of Kenyatta University, housing 7 departments including Chemistry, Biochemistry, Physics, Mathematics, Zoology, Plant Sciences and Computing. The new AI school will initially operate as a department within SPAS before transitioning into a fully autonomous school by 2027.