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Silicon Valley visit to strengthen SA’s AI capabilities: Nzimande

Cyril Ramaphosa to lead a high-level delegation to Silicon Valley from Sunday.

South African Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Blade Nzimande, is set to lead a delegation to Silicon Valley in the United States, aiming to bolster the country's artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities. The visit, which will commence this coming Sunday and conclude next Saturday, is part of President Cyril Ramaphosa's high-level mission to the global technology center.

The primary objective is to enhance South Africa's understanding of the worldwide AI technology and innovation landscape, with insights to guide future government strategies concerning AI development and adoption across sectors.

Nzimande emphasized that artificial intelligence is a cornerstone of South Africa's Decadal Plan for Science, Technology, and Innovation, and the department is committed to substantial investments in foundational AI research and initiatives. The delegation's visit to Silicon Valley aims to forge stronger connections with the ecosystem there, facilitating greater international research collaboration, fostering innovation, and establishing a robust, inclusive domestic AI sector.

This cooperation will align with South Africa's broader goals of inclusive economic growth, digital transformation, industrialization, and sustainable development.

Beyond the focus on AI, the delegation will also engage with international leaders on pressing cybersecurity matters, assess the socio-economic impact of AI technologies, and explore potential investments and partnerships in the tech industry.

Written by urgent.news from SABC News's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.

Read the original at sabcnews.com →

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