Can Kenya embrace artificial intelligence without putting students’ education and patients’ safety at risk? That question is now facing Parliament as lawmakers investigate the use of AI in classrooms and hospitals, opening a debate over whether technological progress is moving faster than the rules meant to control it.
The House Committee on Communication, Information and Innovation has been tasked with examining AI integration in the two sectors and preparing a report within one month.
The inquiry comes as artificial intelligence increasingly influences education, healthcare and other public services, raising questions about how institutions should use the technology responsibly.
In education, AI-powered tools can help teachers prepare learning materials, support students with personalised learning and assist with administrative duties. However, concerns remain about students relying excessively on automated tools, the accuracy of AI-generated information and the protection of learners’ personal data.
In healthcare, artificial intelligence can support medical professionals in analysing information, identifying potential health risks and managing patient records. Nevertheless, errors in AI-generated recommendations and the handling of confidential medical information remain important concerns.
The parliamentary inquiry is expected to examine how these technologies are being introduced, the safeguards currently in place and whether additional regulations are necessary.
One of the central issues is accountability. As AI systems become more involved in decisions affecting education and healthcare, questions arise over who should be held responsible when the technology produces inaccurate information or contributes to a harmful decision.
Privacy is another major concern, particularly because schools and hospitals handle sensitive personal information belonging to children, patients and their families.
Kenya already has a legal framework governing the processing of personal information, including the Data Protection Act, 2019. Any proposed AI safeguards will need to consider existing privacy protections alongside the specific risks associated with automated systems.
The inquiry could therefore shape future discussions on the use of AI in public institutions, including the need for transparency, human supervision and clear standards for deploying the technology.
While supporters of AI point to its potential to improve efficiency and access to services, critics warn that uncontrolled adoption could expose institutions and the public to unnecessary risks.
The challenge for lawmakers will be to establish safeguards that protect Kenyans without unnecessarily restricting innovation.
The committee’s findings are expected to provide a basis for further discussions on how Kenya should regulate artificial intelligence in critical public services.
