Becoming an AI Researcher - Data, Decisions, and Responsibility in Building Intelligent Systems

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Becoming an AI Researcher – Data, Decisions, and Responsibility in Building Intelligent Systems

February 11, 2026

YOUTH in AI SERIES:

Title: Becoming an AI Researcher
Theme: Data, Decisions, and Responsibility in Building Intelligent Systems.
When: February 21, 2026
Where: Virtual via Zoom

Background:

Artificial Intelligence is no longer just about building tools—it is about building them responsibly. As AI systems increasingly influence decisions in healthcare, finance, and governance, the need for ethical, data-literate researchers has never been more critical. However, many young innovators across Africa remain excluded from the research side of AI development due to limited access to academic networks and advanced technical mentorship.

This session seeks to guide participants through the fundamental principles of conducting rigorous, responsible AI research and the data of it all. Participants will not only learn the theory behind data-centric AI but will also gain a clear pathway to contributing to ongoing research projects within the Lab.

Session Objectives:

Demystify the path from “builder” to “published researcher” for African youth.
Explore the ethical lifecycle of AI: from data collection to model deployment and societal impact.
Introduce participants to the research workflow and collaboration structure of the Youth in AI Lab.

Session Highlights:

Keynote: Why Africa Needs more AI Researchers: The Research Path from Local Problem to Global Publication
Workshop 1: Data-Centric AI: Finding Signal in the Noise
Workshop 2: Auditing AI for Bias and Fairness
Announcement:*Open Call for Research Interns – Join the Youth in AI Lab

Target Audience

University students and recent graduates in STEM fields interested in AI ethics and research.
Early-career developers looking to transition into machine learning research.
Data practitioners seeking frameworks for responsible AI.
Community members of Youth in AI.

Partnership Opportunities: We invite corporate and community partners to support this edition through sponsorship, resource sharing, or speaking engagements. Partners gain: