Harnessing AI and data for Africa’s development: Dr. Edmund Balnaves to deliver keynote address at the SCECSAL conference in April

Dr Edmund Balnaves

During the Opening Ceremony of the XXVII SCECSAL Conference on 28 April, Dr Edmund Balnaves, Chief Executive Officer of Prosentient Systems (Australia) and Chair of the Information Technology Section of International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions, will be among the distinguished speakers. He will deliver a keynote address on “Harnessing AI and Data in African Libraries for Africa’s Development.”

As libraries across Africa navigate rapid digital transformation, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and data-driven systems are reshaping how knowledge is discovered, accessed, and used. Dr Balnaves brings decades of global experience spanning library systems, metadata innovation, and AI-enhanced discovery, expertise that is highly relevant to African institutions seeking scalable, sustainable digital solutions.

Currently Chair of the Information Technology Section of the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA), Dr Balnaves has played a leading role in shaping international conversations on library technologies, including AI in libraries and information management. His work spans cloud-based library platforms, AI-assisted search and discovery, and the strategic reuse of metadata to unlock knowledge at scale. His doctoral research focused on systematic content reuse and metadata - foundational elements for intelligent information systems.

For Africa, the stakes are high. Libraries remain critical infrastructure for education, research, entrepreneurship, and lifelong learning, yet many face persistent challenges, including limited funding, outdated technology, insufficient digital resources, and gaps in staff capacity. As the continent undergoes rapid digital transformation, leveraging AI and data-driven systems offers an opportunity to modernize library services, improve access to knowledge, and support scalable, sustainable solutions that meet the evolving needs of students, researchers, and communities. 

Dr Balnaves’ keynote will explore how African libraries, as trusted and equitable community institutions, can mediate the adoption of AI technologies in ways that serve the public good, uphold ethical standards, and meet local needs. He will highlight the broader AI ecosystem beyond generative AI, including machine learning for image recognition, big data analytics, and AI-powered translation tools - critical for bridging linguistic diversity and improving access to educational, governmental, and cultural resources in local languages.

Later in the week, Dr Balnaves will join an expert panel on “AI and Library and Information Services in Africa,” engaging with regional specialists and delegates on practical applications, ethical frameworks, and future-ready skills for library professionals.

As Africa accelerates its digital transformation, AI discussions must be grounded in inclusion, sustainability, and local empowerment. The XXVII SCECSAL Conference provides a timely platform for library and information professionals, policymakers, development practitioners, and academicians to engage in meaningful dialogue on how AI and data can drive inclusive and equitable library services.

Join us on 28 April 2026 for this forward-looking keynote and discover how AI and data can empower African libraries to foster inclusive, equitable development, ensuring that no one is left behind.

Register at: https://conference.scecsal.org/