Artificial Intelligence in African Education

A Systematic Review of Benefits and Ethical Challenges

Abstract

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is shaping education across Africa through its application in teaching, learning, administration, research, and institutional management. However, evidence on its contributions and ethical implications remains fragmented across educational contexts. This paper employed a systematic review to examine the benefits of adopting artificial intelligence and the ethical challenges associated with its use in African education. Guided by the Diffusion of Innovations Theory and the Technology Acceptance Model, the review analyzed 40 studies. The findings revealed that AI enhances teaching and learning through personalized education, intelligent tutoring systems, adaptive learning platforms, and improved student engagement. It also supports administrative efficiency, institutional effectiveness, research productivity, professional development, digital transformation, access, and inclusion. However, AI adoption remains uneven across African countries and institutions, particularly in less digitally advanced environments. Key challenges include inadequate infrastructure, the digital divide, limited AI literacy and training, academic integrity concerns, data privacy and security risks, weak governance frameworks, uneven institutional readiness, financial constraints, and resistance to change. The paper concludes that AI has the potential to transform education and expand access across Africa. However, realizing these benefits requires investment in digital infrastructure, ethical governance, and inclusive policies that promote equitable and sustainable AI integration in education.