Ep 3: How One Center Is Shaping Burkina Faso's AI Future

In this episode of AI for Local Impact, Prof. Tegawendé Bissyandé explores how the Centre of Interdisciplinary Excellence in Artificial Intelligence for Development (CITADEL) in Burkina Faso is building the foundations of a thriving AI ecosystem.From launching the country’s first Master’s programme in AI to advancing innovation in health, agriculture, and local languages, CITADEL is addressing critical skills gaps while shaping pathways for ethical and sustainable AI development.Prof. Bissyandé shares insights on strengthening talent pipelines, fostering collaboration between academia and innovators, and what it takes to grow locally grounded AI ecosystems in Africa.This episode highlights how strategic investment in education and partnerships can unlock long-term impact across a countryThis podcast was made possible by funding from Canada’s International Development Research Center and the UK’s Foreign Commonwealth & Development Office.