AI WILL NOT REPLACE HUMANS, EXPERTS TELL GULU UNIVERSITY STUDENTS

Gerald Paul, Dep. Managing Director NSSF Uganda Speaking to students during the career expo at Gulu University.

Biko Rombe

Gulu City

Hundreds of students at Gulu University have been urged to embrace Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a tool for transformation rather than a threat to their future careers.

The students received training during a career expo held on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, under the theme “Man or Machine.” The event was organized by the National Social Security Fund (NSSF) Uganda in partnership with Absa Bank Uganda and other partners, as part of a nationwide initiative to prepare young people for the evolving world of work.

Speaking at the event, Lameck Kavuma, Chief Executive Officer at AI Studio Uganda, described artificial intelligence as a technology built on pattern recognition and heavily dependent on training data.

He explained that while AI may seem new, it has been part of everyday life for years, with the major change being how people now interact with it.

Kavuma noted that technological shifts have always transformed work rather than eliminated it, pointing to the transition from manual systems to digital tools introduced by innovators like Bill Gates.

He emphasized that today’s workplace is no longer defined by what people know, but by what they can do with that knowledge, stressing that AI is simplifying work, not replacing it.

He further highlighted how breakthroughs around 2017 enabled companies such as Google to train AI systems using vast amounts of internet data, leading to the development of advanced models that are now widely used by over a billion people globally.

However, he raised concern about the imbalance in data representation, noting that the vast majority of training data comes from Western regions while Africa contributes only a small fraction.

Gerald Paul Kasaato, Deputy Managing Director of NSSF Uganda, described AI as a defining force of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, reassuring students that machines will not replace humans but will instead complement their efforts.

He encouraged them to remain ethical in their use of technology, emphasizing that as AI continues to evolve, moral responsibility will become increasingly important.

Also addressing the students, Douglas Opio, CEO of the Federation of Uganda Employers, stressed the importance of balancing practical skills with theoretical knowledge.

He explained that while AI is improving productivity and reshaping industries, human qualities such as understanding, judgment, and behavior remain critical in the workplace.

Opio encouraged students to go beyond simply using technology by seeking to understand it, while also engaging in ongoing ethical discussions surrounding AI.

He emphasized that personal character and the ability to relate well with others can be just as important as technical knowledge, reminding them that while machines may power the work, humans remain in control of its direction.

Students of Gulu University during the career expo

The training also had a significant impact on students; many of whom said it changed their perception of AI. Calvin Opedun, a first-year agriculture student, said he had initially believed AI would replace human jobs, but now sees it as a tool that can help him achieve more.

Ongora Francis, a second-year student, noted that he had previously trusted AI tools completely but has now learned the importance of verifying information and staying informed.

Atoo Vicky also shared that the training helped her understand the value of working alongside AI to improve outcomes.

The Gulu University session is part of a wider outreach program by NSSF Uganda targeting 14 universities across the country, with Gulu University being the 12th to host the 2026 career expo.

Overall, the message from the training was clear: AI is not here to replace humans, but to redefine how work is done. Those who adapt, remain ethical, and develop relevant skills will be best positioned to thrive in the changing world.