The University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) opened a new AI research hub called the Wits Machine Intelligence and Neural Discovery (MIND) Institute on November 19.

The institute will focus on fundamental AI research and the scientific understanding of intelligence in its many forms, while developing cutting-edge technologies tailored to Africa’s unique challenges through robust interdisciplinary collaboration.

It will collaborate with industry partners to develop high-value, innovative technologies, including large-scale AI models with applications in drug discovery, education, business, engineering, mining, material science and astronomy, among others.

“Partnerships between universities and industries have proven to be pivotal in developing industry-specific innovation, assessing risks posed by AI and training talent required by industry to develop, deploy and scale AI solutions,” said Wits Research and Innovation deputy vice-chancellor Professor Lynn Morris.

“The Wits MIND Institute research hub will partner with industry to help them prepare and become purpose-fit for the age of AI. We are in discussion with several big technology companies and industries whose leaders are very excited about the possibilities that a partnership with Wits will bring,” she pointed out.

The Wits MIND Institute’s model is founded on robust interdisciplinary collaboration and the breaking down of academic silos, said Wits AI and robotics professor and Wits MIND Institute director Benjamin Rosman.

Thirty-four experts from diverse fields, including computer science, engineering, psychology, philosophy, neuroscience, anatomy, creative arts, anthropology and governance, have been selected to serve in the Wits MIND Institute’s inaugural Fellows Programme.

This interdisciplinary team will drive the institute’s mission by working in an environment that encourages the cross- pollination of ideas.

The Wits MIND Institute is engaging with market leaders across diverse sectors, including the technology, financial services, healthcare, manufacturing, retail and logistics industries, he added.

The Wits MIND Institute will run deep-dive workshops, seminars, talks and regular gatherings where the Fellows can interact, find synergies and drive scientific discovery and innovation.

“By creating a space for these cross- disciplinary interactions, the Wits MIND Institute aims to supercharge AI research in entirely new directions,” said Rosman.

To support these efforts, the institute will appoint new AI research chairs across Wits’ five faculties.

This will help to channel fundamental research into practical applications across multiple fields, ensuring that the Wits MIND Institute’s discoveries benefit various sectors of society.

However, the institute’s primary focus is on fundamental AI research, which is the foundational science behind AI.

The Wits MIND Institute will collaborate with IT company IBM on joint research initiatives and will combine expertise and innovation to drive impactful projects, he added.

The Wits MIND Institute was launched at the new Wits Anglo American Digital Dome, which was developed to be a cross-disciplinary, advanced research and development centre.