Location
Kumasi, Ghana & Virtual
Start Date
6-8-2026 12:30 PM
End Date
6-8-2026 1:00 PM
Description
Generative artificial intelligence (Gen AI) is transforming governance, knowledge systems, and economic activity, but current preparedness measures pay little attention to the socio-technical, institutional, and postcolonial contexts that shape country trajectories. To address this gap, the study employs a design science methodology to create the National Generative AI Readiness Assessment Framework (N-GAIRF), a six-dimensional diagnostic tool theoretically based on Sen's capability approach to development and incorporating Institutional Theory, Socio-Technical Systems Theory, National Innovation Systems Theory, and Postcolonial Information Systems critique. An example application to South Africa, compared to Zimbabwe and an indicative Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) reference band, demonstrates the framework's diagnostic use; the scores are analytical approximations rather than empirically validated measurements. The framework broadens current preparedness instruments by emphasizing equality, inclusion, and postcolonial features, and it provides preliminary implications for South African policymakers. Further research may involve empirical validation through expert panels and stakeholder involvement.
South Africa's Inclusive Six-Dimensional Generative AI Readiness Framework
Kumasi, Ghana & Virtual
Generative artificial intelligence (Gen AI) is transforming governance, knowledge systems, and economic activity, but current preparedness measures pay little attention to the socio-technical, institutional, and postcolonial contexts that shape country trajectories. To address this gap, the study employs a design science methodology to create the National Generative AI Readiness Assessment Framework (N-GAIRF), a six-dimensional diagnostic tool theoretically based on Sen's capability approach to development and incorporating Institutional Theory, Socio-Technical Systems Theory, National Innovation Systems Theory, and Postcolonial Information Systems critique. An example application to South Africa, compared to Zimbabwe and an indicative Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) reference band, demonstrates the framework's diagnostic use; the scores are analytical approximations rather than empirically validated measurements. The framework broadens current preparedness instruments by emphasizing equality, inclusion, and postcolonial features, and it provides preliminary implications for South African policymakers. Further research may involve empirical validation through expert panels and stakeholder involvement.
