First-of-its-kind AI Innovation Lab launched to democratise access to emerging technologies

The Artificial Intelligence Innovation Lab STEM Centre, a dedicated space aimed at fostering innovation, practical learning and the development of emerging technology skills, was inaugurated, today, in the presence of the Minister of Information Technology, Communication and Innovation, Dr Avinash Ramtohul, at Cyber Tower 2 in Ebène.

On the occasion, a Memorandum of Understanding was also exchanged to mark the collaboration between the Ministry and the STEMpower, a nonprofit which provides expertise to Sub-Saharan African countries to establish hands-on STEM centres and self-sustaining lab-based infrastructure for learning Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM).

The Chief Executive Officer of STEMpower Inc, Mr Edwin Kumfa Ngalang, and the Head of the AI Unit, Mr Ramakrishna Mudaliar, were among the main attendees.

In his remarks, Minister Ramtohul reaffirmed Government’s commitment to decentralise and democratise access to emerging technologies, particularly Artificial Intelligence (AI). He stated that the establishment of the AI Innovation Lab is aligned with the National AI Strategy and the FAIR Guidelines, launched in April this year, which seek to position Mauritius as a modern, high-tech and innovation-driven digital economy.

He also recalled the setting up of the AI Unit in December last year, noting that the Unit is already working on implementing the National AI Strategy in a bid to support the country’s advancement in AI and other emerging technologies. “The new facility,” he emphasised, “will provide an enabling environment for hands-on learning, experimentation and innovation, while equipping users with practical skills in AI and related fields.”

The Minister further expressed appreciation to STEMpower Inc for its support in establishing the AI Innovation Lab and called for greater collaboration and similar initiatives to promote innovation and technology development in Mauritius.

For his part, Mr Ngalang congratulated Mauritius for successfully establishing a first-of-its-kind AI Innovation Lab which, he said, marks an important milestone for the country. He noted that the facility will contribute to advancing Mauritius’ vision of integrating AI across various sectors.

He indicated that STEMpower Inc has been sharing its expertise in AI and STEM education with some 163 countries in Sub-Saharan Africa, including Mauritius. He also underlined the growing importance of STEM in a rapidly evolving world, as they would play a key role in shaping opportunities for future generations.

As for Mr Mudaliar, he is confident that additional AI laboratories will be established across the island, adding that such initiatives will create more opportunities for students, professionals and other stakeholders involved in the field of Artificial Intelligence.

The AI Innovation Lab comprises two sections, namely the AI Training Lab and the Electronic Lab. The AI Training Lab is equipped with 24 computers featuring Arduino IDE and Microsoft Office packages, while the Electronic Lab provides a range of electronic equipment for robotics, the design and construction of electronic circuits, smart energy monitoring systems and the development of AI artefacts.

The Lab will be accessible by appointment to students, experts, technology entrepreneurs and members of civil society from 0900 hrs to 1600 hrs, Monday to Friday.

20 August 2026

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Topics: Artificial Intelligence

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