Abstract:

In the pursuit of decolonising education, the challenge of language barriers remains a significant obstacle to inclusive and contextually relevant learning experiences in African institutions. This study proposes a transformative framework that leverages existing AI technologies, enhanced by indigenous knowledge systems, to address these barriers. The framework enables students to learn in their native languages, enriched with cultural and indigenous contexts, regardless of the instructor's language. By integrating domain-specific language libraries and AI-powered translation tools, the framework facilitates communication and preserves and promotes African cultures, heritage, and traditions within the learning environment. This approach underscores the importance of language as more than a mere tool for communication but as a vessel of identity and knowledge. The key contribution of this framework is its potential to create a harmonious fusion of indigenous knowledge with modern educational practices, fostering a more inclusive and culturally resonant learning experience. The successful application of this framework could revolutionise educational accessibility and equity in African contexts, breaking down barriers imposed by colonial legacies and empowering students through language and cultural relevance.

Keywords:

Decolonisation, Indigenous Knowledge Systems, AI-enabled Translation, Language Barriers and African Education.