AI Takes over Google search
Google is putting AI at the forefront of its search results, with its new feature known as the Search Generative Experience (SGE), which offers summaries and links to corroborate information on a search topic. Google is betting on SGE to solve the issues it has with more exploratory searches such as “Where should I go in Paris next week?” or “What’s the best restaurant in Tokyo?” Google hopes the new feature will change how billions of people find information online and lead to new advertising opportunities. The SGE is part of Google’s most advanced Large Language Models, including the new general-purpose model called PaLM 2 and the Multitask Unified Model (MUM).
Nigerian Government to Train Its Workers on Digital Literacy
The Bureau of Public Service Reforms (BPSR) has launched an Inter-Ministerial Task Team to train 5,000 federal public service workers on digital literacy and skills. The training aims to bridge the digital gap among public service workers. The team will train civil servants from 794 MDAs in four competency areas: ICT Digital Literacy, Communication Skills for Business, Entrepreneurship and Small Business, and Career Specific certifications. Members of the team will drive the implementation process and work towards the vision of creating a digitally literate modern public service in Nigeria that can operate effectively in the digital era.
Digital Literacy Boost in Uganda
The Innovation Village (TIV) and the Federation of Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (FSME) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to provide digital literacy to medium and small enterprises across Uganda. This partnership aims to address the urgent need for digital skills among SMEs, which account for 90% of the business sector in Uganda. The lack of access to resources, combined with the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, had created a need for innovative solutions to support MSMEs and enable their resilience and growth. Through this partnership, MSMEs will have access to digital literacy campaigns, technology solutions providers, financial services, business development services, and resilience support.
Telus International Expands to Africa
TELUS International, a digital customer experience innovator, has announced its establishment of operations in South Africa and Morocco to meet near-term client demand for greater diversity in offshore and nearshore delivery capabilities. The company aims to augment its global delivery capabilities in digital CX, trust & safety, and AI services through further growth in the region over the longer term. South Africa and Morocco possess world-class infrastructures with strong broadband networks and economies to support future growth and are strategically located to accommodate the company’s clients across Europe and North America.
How Technology is Impacting Agriculture in Africa
The state-of-the-art tool uses AI and satellite data to overcome Africa’s agricultural data gap and support effective decision-making and crisis planning. The tool has provided predictions for agricultural yields in 47 African countries, across many of the most important crops for African food production.
