The Bureau Newspaper gathered that the ECOWAS Parliament has called for the formulation of a regional legal and ethical framework to regulate artificial intelligence (AI) and promote inclusive education technology (EdTech) policies across West Africa, in a bid to enhance education systems and strengthen digital governance.
This resolution was announced during the opening session of the Parliament’s Joint Committee meeting on Education, Science and Culture, Health, Telecommunications and Information Technology, held in Dakar, Senegal.
Speaking on behalf of the Joint Committee, Co-Chairperson Orlando Dias underscored the urgency of aligning West African education systems with evolving digital realities, especially amid the growing influence of AI in global socio-economic development.
“Education catalyzed by technology is the keystone in addressing inclusion, youth employability, and economic competitiveness,”
— Orlando Dias, ECOWAS Parliament Joint Committee Co-Chair
Need for a Community Act on AI
Referencing the remarks of ECOWAS Commission President Dr. Omar Alieu Touray during the First Ordinary Session in May, the Joint Committee reiterated the need for a Community Act on AI, which would guide the development and application of artificial intelligence within the sub-region.
According to participants, the goal is not only to encourage AI adoption but to strategically master its development, ensuring alignment with the region’s values and socioeconomic priorities.
The proposed framework is expected to address:
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Data protection and digital rights
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Ethical standards for AI systems
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Digital equity and inclusive access
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Educational transformation using smart technologies
Dakar Chosen for Its Intellectual Legacy
In his closing remarks, Co-Chair Orlando Dias hailed Senegal’s intellectual heritage, naming historical icons like Léopold Sédar Senghor and Cheikh Anta Diop as examples of the region’s pioneering thought leaders.
“The digital future of our region is being shaped today. Our work must reflect the aspirations of West Africa’s youth and the demands of the 21st century,”
— Orlando Dias
The committee meeting is expected to produce binding policy recommendations to be ratified by the ECOWAS Parliament, emphasizing regulatory clarity, regional cooperation, and inclusive digital transition across Member States.
