Tunisia’s Novation City, in collaboration with NVIDIA’s Deep Learning Institute (DLI), has inaugurated a new AI innovation hub in Sousse, aiming to foster a robust ecosystem in mechatronics and AI across Africa. This strategic initiative, situated in the technology-focused city of Sousse, is part of NVIDIA’s broader mission to train 100,000 developers across the continent within three years, with the project already one-quarter complete.
The hub offers essential training, cutting-edge technologies, and vital business networking opportunities to drive AI adoption across Africa. It provides free access to NVIDIA DLI courses in key areas like generative AI, accelerated computing, and data science, equipping developers with the skills needed for the evolving tech landscape.
Novation City, a nexus for industry 4.0 and smart transport, supports AI startups and researchers with access to NVIDIA DGX infrastructure and organizes hackathons and training to stimulate growth within the AI sector. The city’s Chief Innovation Officer, Anas Rochdi, highlighted several initiatives launched this year to strengthen local AI capabilities, including the deployment of Tunisia’s first NVIDIA DGX system.
Moreover, the hub is positioned to enhance Tunisia’s educational emphasis on STEM and leverage its strategic location as a gateway between Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. The initiative is supported by various international and regional funding sources, including French and German development agencies, the Tunisian government, the World Bank, the European Union, and multiple enterprises.
This AI innovation hub aligns with Tunisia’s national strategy for AI and digitalization, part of a comprehensive vision to establish the country as a digital leader in Africa. It also coincides with the launch of Tunisia’s first public AI institute by the University of Tunis, further cementing the nation’s commitment to advancing AI education and research.
Novation City and NVIDIA’s partnership aims to foster sovereign AI capabilities in Tunisia by enabling the development of AI technologies using local expertise and resources. This initiative not only propels technological and scientific advancement in Tunisia but also sets a precedent for similar educational and developmental AI initiatives across Africa.
