God, Nature, Society

3 Credits · Level: Undergraduate

Full Title: Reimagining African technology markets.Course Description: Technology plays an increasingly important role in Africa’s development and social and economic progress. Africa’s digital revolution can be attributed to demand from a youthful population, increased digitization and digital transformation and increased investment in innovative products. That said, there are pervasive challenges such as poor critical infrastructure, a wide digital divide and skills gaps. While the tech sector has positioned itself to help solve Africa’s challenges, there is inconclusive evidence on the sustainability of such corporate social impact and the sector’s role in solving systemic challenges. As such, the class will examine the market systems approach to development and how to leverage the corporate sector for good. Africa’s fast adoption of technology for development provides a shift from typical “brick and motor” business models that focused on the construction of dated infrastructure and the distribution of goods, to one that leapfrogs and focuses on leaning in to the Fourth Industrial Revolution, a rising gig economy, increasing local manufacturing thus providing Africans with additional agency to craft their own progress. This course will introduce broad topics related to Africa’s development at the intersection of business, development and technology. Students will study factors relevant to the tech sector’s success such as geopolitical influences such as China’s digital belt road, cyber and information technology security, ethical considerations in product development and evolving legal frameworks. We will discuss the role of the private sector as a vehicle for change with a particular emphasis on how technological innovation is affecting the lives and livelihoods of Africans and African markets.The course will involve deep engagement with classmates, guest speakers, and readings and real-life focused assignments that allow students challenge, design and reimagine tech in Africa.