Koudougou: Norbert Zongo University of Koudougou was the venue for the defense of a unique doctoral thesis by Barthelemy Sorgho, focusing on educational sciences and training with a specialization in educational policies.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the candidate’s research was centered on “Uses of Generative Artificial Intelligence at Norbert Zongo University in Burkina Faso: Analysis of Ethical and Pedagogical Implications.” Dr. Barthelemy Sorgho highlighted the impact of technologies like ChatGPT, which has been rapidly spreading since its emergence in 2022, on educational methods. He pointed out that generative AI can produce text, images, videos, or sounds from simple instructions, offering new teaching and learning opportunities through accessible devices like smartphones and laptops.
Dr. Sorgho expressed appreciation for his supervisor and the jury members, acknowledging their constructive feedback, which he credited for his intellectual growth. The jury included Dr. Fran§ois Sawadogo as president, Dr. Zacharia Tiemtore as thesis director, Dr. Missa Barro as examiner, Dr. Sibiri Luc Kabore as internal rapporteur, and Dr. Kabran Aristide Djane as external rapporteur, who joined via videoconference from Ivory Coast.
According to the jury chairman, Dr. Fran§ois Sawadogo, the candidate’s research was rigorous and methodologically sound, offering insights into how artificial intelligence can be integrated into the education system while minimizing potential abuses. He noted that AI is a powerful tool that, if mismanaged, could impede creativity and learning quality.
Thesis supervisor Dr. Zacharia Tiemtore lauded Dr. Sorgho’s ambitious project, asserting that the study underscores the importance for African researchers to engage with emerging technologies. “Generative artificial intelligence is transforming the educational relationship, and it is important that we are actors in it rather than just consumers,” he stated.
The defense ceremony, attended by Sorgho’s family, friends, and colleagues, ended on a note of satisfaction. After deliberations, the jury awarded Barthelemy Sorgho the highest distinction, recognizing the significance and scientific merit of his research.