President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has issued a stark warning to African nations to adapt to the age of science, technology, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) or risk falling into permanent global irrelevance.
Speaking during the national celebrations to mark the International Day of Education (IDE) 2025 at Kololo Independence Grounds on Tuesday, 29th April2025, where he highlighted the dire consequences of Africa’s past and what must be done to prevent history from repeating itself.
The President stressed the continent’s need to focus on scientific advancement, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), as a tool to address contemporary challenges.
“Africa must never lag behind again in science and technology. That’s why we say, yes, education is very important, but emphasis must be put on science and technology. The AI you’re talking about is part of that. It is not magic but the use of natural laws to solve problems,” Museveni said.
The event, held under the theme “AI and Education: Preserving Human Agency in a World of Automation,” brought together policymakers, diplomats, education experts and other stakeholders to reflect on the future of education in an increasingly automated world.
While rooting for a stronger science-driven curriculum, the President also acknowledged the relevance of social sciences in economic development, particularly in entrepreneurship and the management of production factors.
“Social science is important, the only difference is that it must have a base of science and technology,” he said.
Museveni further reiterated his long-standing call for the full implementation of free Universal Primary and Secondary Education (UPE and USE), criticizing head teachers and Parents Teachers Associations (PTAs) for imposing fees that exclude vulnerable learners.
“Charges are a big bottleneck which must be stopped. These are children who were locked out of school due to changes in government schools,” he noted.
The First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Mama Janet Museveni, hailed the President for his unwavering support to the education sector.
She underscored the government’s commitment to equitable and inclusive education, and praised the recent enactment of the TVET Act, 2025, which provides a framework for reforming the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) sub-sector.
“If the Government can ensure that each of those young people gets a toolbox to start a small starter industry, then employing these people would be real,” she added.
The event was attended by several cabinet ministers, Members of Parliament, members of the diplomatic corps and international development partners.
