Events & Workshop Archive

Welcome to the official archive of the AI4D African Languages Lab. Here, you can access recordings, resources, and summaries from our key project milestones and community-driven initiatives as we work to build human capacity and sustainable language AI across the continent.

2026: Bridging Research and Reality Workshop

March 26, 2026 - University of Pretoria

Our second major workshop focused on moving from experimental NLP prototypes to robust, deployed, and ethically grounded systems. The day featured intensive panels on the “Content Pipeline,” data sovereignty, and the critical intersection of cybersecurity with language AI.

Session Highlights

  • Opening & Framing: Prof. Vukosi Marivate - Watch
  • Panel 1: Bridging Research and Reality: Moderated by Prof. Chijioke Okorie - Watch
  • Rapid Talks (Core NLP): Featuring T. Macucwa, F. Banda, A. Tegene, and P. Matloga - Watch
  • Rapid Talks (Applied Systems): Featuring N. Manukuza, M. Mathebula, D. Mphogo, and T. Sindane - Watch
  • Spotlight: Cybersecurity & Forensics: Prof. Hein Venter - Watch
  • Plenary: Research to Systems: Dr. T. Chidi, Dr. D. Jarvis, and Dr. M. Monareng - Watch
  • Panel 2: Ethics, Law & Deployment: Moderated by Seani Rananga - Watch
  • Beyond the Data & Model Collapse: Plenary reflections from Dr. Tsosheletso Chidi and Dr. Devon Jarvis - Watch

2025: Community & Capacity Building Highlights

Translating Abstracts: Making Science Accessible

Ongoing Initiative

We are committed to language equity in research. Our team has been actively translating academic abstracts into indigenous languages to ensure scientific knowledge is accessible beyond English-only silos.

SWIP: Strengthening Partnerships

Collaboration Initiative

The SWIP (South African Wikipedia) collaboration continues to be a cornerstone of our work, bringing together universities, language directorates, and communities to enrich indigenous language content on Wikipedia.

Hundzula NLP Retreats

Annual Research Retreats

Hundzula has become our primary incubator for capacity building, bringing together linguists, language practitioners, and NLP researchers to foster mutual understanding and break down disciplinary silos.

2024: Lab Kickoff Workshop

December 2024 - University of Pretoria

The inaugural workshop marked the official launch of the AI4D African Languages Lab. This foundational event brought together researchers to define our mission: closing the data gap and fostering regional collaboration in African NLP.

Essential Resources