RE: RE:Proposed Legislation for the Establishment of the Kenya Robotics and Artificial Intelligence Society Bill, 2023
Fred Sagwe
As a professional body platform for robotics and artificial intelligence practitioners, in accordance with the Constitution of Kenya,2010,Article 119.
The Bill defines the powers and functions of the Society, which include:
Promoting the development of robotics and artificial intelligence in Kenya;
Conducting research and development in robotics and artificial intelligence;
Providing training and education in robotics and artificial intelligence;
Promoting the use of robotics and artificial intelligence for social and economic development;
Cooperating with other organizations in Kenya and abroad to promote the field of robotics and artificial intelligence.
The Bill also establishes the governing body of the Society, which is the Board of Directors. The Board is responsible for the overall management of the Society and for ensuring that it fulfills its mandate.
The Bill is an important step in the development of the field of robotics and artificial intelligence in Kenya. It provides a legal framework for the establishment and operation of the Society, and it gives the Society the powers and resources it needs to promote and develop this important field.
As you know, robotics and artificial intelligence are rapidly growing fields with the potential to revolutionize many industries. These technologies have the potential to improve our lives in many ways, from making our homes more efficient to creating new jobs and businesses.
The Society would be able to conduct research and development, provide training and education, and promote the use of robotics and artificial intelligence for social and economic development.
A recent study by the McKinsey Global Institute found that generative AI has the potential to generate value equivalent to $2.6 trillion to $4.4 trillion annually across the 63 use cases they analyzed. This would increase the impact of all artificial intelligence by 15 to 40 percent.
Generative AI is a type of AI that can create new content, such as text, code, images, and music. It is still under development, but it has the potential to revolutionize many industries, including healthcare, manufacturing, and retail.
ChatGPT is one of the biggest technology revelations of recent times.Its use cases are seemingly endless.From students and high school teachers to programmers and writers,everyone is finding a good use for ChatGPT.
After the global boom of OpenAI’s ChatGPT, AI use has dominated headlines and caused increasing concerns about privacy and security.AI chatbots are capable of writing essays,messages,resumes,emails,replicating voices, and manufacturing images among numerous other possibilities. A large concern is how AI can force people out of their jobs and invade their privacy.
There is expressed concern over the widespread use of AI, threatening security, privacy, and civil rights. The World Coin platform has been criticized for its lack of security and privacy features.
According to the World Economic Forum,artificial intelligence (AI) is a powerful tool that is also surprisingly limited in terms of its current capabilities.And,while it has the potential to improve human existence,at the same time it threatens to deepen social divides and put millions of people out of work.While its inner workings are highly technical,the non-technical among us can and should understand the basic principles of how it works - and the concerns that it raises.As the influence and impact of AI spread,it will be critical to involve people and experts from the most diverse backgrounds possible in guiding this technology in ways that enhance human capabilities and lead to positive outcomes.
EU AI Act:first regulation on artificial intelligence
The European Union has been characteristically first to jump with its AI Act,expected to be fully approved by the end of the year.The move can be seen as an attempt to set a template for other countries to emulate,in the style of its European General Data Protection Regulation,which has provided a framework for data protection laws around the world.The use of artificial intelligence in the EU will be regulated by the AI,the world's first comprehensive law.
The Kenya Robotics and Artificial Intelligence Society is envisaged to serve a pivotal institution that promotes and advances the field of robotics and artificial intelligence (AI) within our nation. With the growing significance of these technological disciplines in various sectors, it has become imperative to provide a structured framework that supports their ethical development, application, and growth.
Purpose of the Bill
The primary objective of this proposed legislation is to formally establish the Kenya Robotics and Artificial Intelligence Society as a professional body, mandated to regulate, promote, and facilitate the activities of robotics and AI practitioners within the country. The Society will strive to create an environment that encourages research, collaboration, and innovation while upholding ethical standards and ensuring public safety.
Conclusion:
As our nation continues to embrace technological advancements, the establishment of the Kenya Robotics and Artificial Intelligence Society will undoubtedly contribute to the growth of a skilled workforce, responsible innovation, and sustainable development. This bill seeks to lay the foundation for a thriving robotics and AI ecosystem that aligns with the nation’s vision for progress.
I kindly request your support in introducing this bill to the Parliament of Kenya for consideration. Your leadership and advocacy will play a pivotal role in realizing the potential of robotics and AI for the betterment of our society. If needed, I am more than willing to provide additional information or clarifications regarding the proposed legislation.
About Us
The Robotics Society of Kenya (RSK) is a registered non-profit organization (R.54783) based in Kenya. With a mission to promote computing in institutions and communities through robotics, artificial intelligence (AI), physical computing, makerspace, Internet of Things (IoT), STEAM, chess education, and research. We aim to engage with a community of passionate educators, volunteers, partners, and sponsors who bring the benefits of technology to schools, classrooms, and communities in Kenya and beyond. See our stories page for more information about the Society's work in robotics, artificial intelligence (AI),research and chess.
In an interview with the Daily Nation, a leading Kenyan newspaper, on "How Africa is getting ready for the impending age of robotics," the Robotics Society of Kenya (RSK) reaffirmed the importance of introducing AI and robotics learning to school-going children early in their learning life.
RSK called on the Ministry of Education in Kenya to establish robotics clubs in schools and institutions, arguing that robotics can provide students with the opportunity to learn about these technologies in a fun and engaging way.
RSK's flagship project, Solar-Powered Computer Lab in Shipping Container for Kenyan Learners, aims to make computing accessible to school learners in Kenya, where most schools have no computers at all and may lack electricity. The project aims to create a facility that can be reproduced all over Kenya, powered by solar energy where main electricity isn't available.The flagship project, the Solar-Powered Computer Lab in a Shipping Container, aims to address the pressing problem of limited access to quality education, computers and technology for Kenyan learners, particularly in underserved areas.
This move will not only provide cost savings on electricity and power, but it also aligns with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals.
The Robotics Society of Kenya (RSK) was featured in the Global Teacher Prize story "Chess and Robotics: Two Worlds United." The Global Teacher Prize is an annual award presented to an exceptional teacher who has made an outstanding contribution to their profession.
The story highlights the commonalities between chess and robotics, both of which require strategic thinking, problem-solving skills, and creativity. In addition, both activities can help children develop important life skills such as perseverance, resilience, and teamwork.
Chess is also a useful tool for learning AI. The game can be used to teach AI concepts such as search algorithms, machine learning, and reinforcement learning.
In this way, chess is like a drosophila fly for learning AI. Drosophila flies are often used in genetic research because they are easy to breed and have a short lifespan. This makes them ideal for studying the effects of genetic changes on development and behavior.
Similarly, chess is a relatively simple game to understand, but it is complex enough to challenge even the most sophisticated AI systems. This makes it a valuable tool for learning AI concepts and developing new AI algorithms.
In a recent statement, the RSK called for the establishment of robotics clubs in schools and institutions across Kenya. The RSK believes that these clubs would provide students with the opportunity to learn about robotics, to develop their STEM skills, and to compete in robotics competitions.
The RSK's feature in the Global Teacher Prize story is a testament to the organization's important work in promoting robotics education in Kenya. The story also helps to raise awareness of the importance of robotics and artificial intelligence (AI) education and the role that it can play in inspiring and engaging students in STEM subjects.
The Robotics Society of Kenya (RSK) was awarded a license to host a Raspberry Pi Jam Mombasa by the Raspberry Pi Foundation: a one-day event for students, teachers, and enthusiasts of robotics and AI. The Jam will feature workshops, demonstrations, and hands-on activities. Participants will learn about the Raspberry Pi computer, which can be used to build robots, control devices, and learn about programming. The Jam will also feature workshops on robotics, AI, and other STEM topics such as electronics and 3D printing.
The Raspberry Pi Jam is a global event that brings together people of all ages and backgrounds to learn about robotics, AI, and STEM education. The Raspberry Pi is a low-cost, credit-card-sized computer that can be used to make electronic projects, learn programming, and play games.
The Raspberry Pi Jam is a great opportunity for people of all ages and experience levels to learn about robotics, AI, and STEM education. The event is free and open to the public.
The Robotics Society of Kenya (RSK) has introduced a bill to the Kenya National Assembly and the Senate to establish the Kenya Robotics and Artificial Intelligence Society (KRAS), a non-profit organization responsible for promoting and developing the field of robotics and artificial intelligence (AI) in Kenya. KRAS will also serve as a professional body platform for robotics and AI practitioners.
The bill is an important step in the development of robotics and AI in Kenya. It provides a legal framework for the establishment and operation of KRAS, and it gives the Society the powers and resources it needs to promote and develop this important field.
Thank you for your time and consideration
Sincerely,
Fred Sagwe Co-founder & CEO, Robotics Society of Kenya Classroom Teacher, Shimo La Tewa School
[Enclosure:Proposed Bill for the Establishment of the Robotics Society of Kenya]