African Development Bank and KAIST Partner to Build AI Workforce

The partnership targets the human infrastructure required to manage emerging technologies, offering specialized training for public officials and engineers. By leveraging KAIST’s technical curricula, the initiative seeks to ensure that African leaders can navigate the complexities of AI integration while addressing unique local needs. This effort aligns with broader development goals, as the Bank estimates AI could add $1 trillion to the continent's GDP by 2035 through improved computing power, data governance, and specialized human capital.

Beyond training, the agreement establishes a pipeline for joint research and policy development. Experts from both institutions will conduct workshops and strategic studies to help African governments build robust digital ecosystems. This collaboration expands on the existing Korea-Africa Economic Cooperation (KOAFEC) Trust Fund, which has already directed over $132 million into regional projects since 2007. By shifting the focus toward AI-specific capacity building, the new framework provides the intellectual foundation necessary to turn high-level economic projections into tangible industrial growth.