(Central News Agency reporter Lu Kang-Chun, Hsinchu, May 21) — A team of 30 tech volunteers from National Tsing Hua University (NTHU) will head to Africa this summer, bringing with them 231 donated second-hand computers and launching artificial intelligence (AI) courses aimed at helping students and teachers in under-resourced areas bridge the digital divide.

At a press conference held today, NTHU Vice President Dai Nien-Hua remarked that education is a vital opportunity to transform societies. He praised the students for going abroad to share their expertise and compassion, with volunteers contributing by repairing computers, designing curricula, fundraising, and coordinating resources — all invaluable learning experiences.

Tanzania team leader Kuo Chih-Hsuan explained that their program includes AI literacy courses, covering Python programming and Scratch visual coding. The team will also incorporate sustainability by guiding students to repurpose e-waste into creative projects.

Eswatini team leader Lin Yu-Hsi shared that they will train local teachers to use digital tools like ChatGPT and Canva in their classrooms, and offer students courses in media literacy — with the hope that these programs will have lasting impact.

Liao Ting-Hui, who leads the Kenya and Mozambique advance teams, said the group is preparing digital educational tools such as PhET and GeoGebra to support local teaching and learning, addressing the lack of IT resources.

According to NTHU, the international volunteer team was founded in 2007 and has since served in countries across Africa, Central America, and Asia. This year marks a milestone as the first time AI education is being introduced, with tailored teaching programs designed to suit varying levels of internet access — equipping local students and teachers with immediately applicable digital skills.

(Source: Central News Agency, May 21, 2025, Reported by Lu Kang-Chun, Edited by Fang Pei-Ching)