The 16th Kabarak University International Research Conference on Music, Media and Performing Arts – PASMAE Eastern Africa 2026 opened its first day with thought-provoking conversations on the changing relationship between African cultural heritage, technology, media and the creative arts.
Held under the theme “Convergence of Heritage and Horizons: Navigating Faith, Technology, and the Digital Frontier in African Media and Performing Arts,” Day One brought together researchers, scholars, educators, media practitioners, technologists and creative professionals from across Africa to share research and examine emerging trends shaping the continent’s creative and media landscape.
The visiting delegates were received by the Dean, School of Music and Media, Dr Michael Ndonye, together with members of the school’s faculty, setting the stage for a day centred on academic exchange, collaboration and new perspectives.
A key thread running through the day's presentations was the question of how Africa can embrace emerging technologies while retaining and strengthening its cultural identity. Discussions around film, digital heritage, traditional performance and immersive technologies highlighted new possibilities for documenting, preserving and reimagining African cultural expressions in an increasingly digital environment.
The growing influence of artificial intelligence in music and the creative sector also featured prominently. Researchers examined the evolving relationship between human creativity and AI, raising important questions around artistic identity, innovation and the role of technology in shaping the future of music and media.
Beyond technology, the conference placed strong emphasis on the transformation of Africa's creative economy. The discussions considered the changing media environment, digital film distribution, new approaches to film marketing, media literacy and the opportunities emerging from the rapid growth of digital platforms.
Music education and indigenous knowledge also formed part of the broader conversation, with researchers reflecting on how education systems can prepare teachers and learners for a rapidly changing environment while ensuring that African musical traditions and knowledge remain relevant to future generations.
The day's academic programme was complemented by networking and engagement among participants, creating opportunities for researchers and practitioners from different institutions and countries to exchange ideas and explore areas of collaboration.
Following the presentations, the visiting delegates toured the School of Music and Media, where they experienced the University's facilities and explored how technology, creativity and contemporary approaches are integrated into music, media and performing arts education.
Day One therefore established a strong academic foundation for the conference, bringing heritage and innovation into the same conversation. As the conference will have its official opening ceremony on Tuesday 22nd September, participants will have further opportunities to examine how research, technology, faith and creativity can contribute to the development of Africa's media and performing arts landscape.
