Bolgatanga: The Ghana National Association of Private Schools (GNAPS) has made a call to the government to support the adoption and integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to transform education in the country. Professor Damasus Tuurosong, the National President of GNAPS, highlighted the rapid evolution of the world with AI and other technological advancements, emphasizing that Ghana must not be left behind in this progress.
According to Ghana News Agency, Professor Tuurosong emphasized the critical role of AI in enhancing teaching and learning and stressed the urgent need for the government to establish the necessary digital infrastructure to fully harness AI's potential for growth and inclusive educational outcomes. He warned that the country risks missing out on the significant benefits of AI without prompt action and infrastructure development.
The 39th GNAPS/S4D General Conference, held in Bolgatanga under the theme 'Artificial Intelligence: A Tool for Driving Education in the 21st Century', gathered association members, key e ducational stakeholders, political figures, and traditional leaders. Professor Tuurosong clarified that while AI is a transformative tool for sustainable growth, it could also become destructive if misused. He urged the government to lead the responsible integration of AI across sectors, supporting both public and private schools in introducing AI into young people's education.
Professor Tuurosong proposed that digital literacy should be state-funded and facilitated to enable engagement with AI, suggesting the creation of an AI educational fund to resource schools for AI program implementation. He acknowledged the government's steps to integrate private schools into the Free Senior High School policy but called for further support for private schools' growth nationwide.
Professor Hugh Aryee, Ambassador of the Vanuatu Trade Commission to Ghana, noted that Africa had missed previous industrial revolutions but highlighted the fourth industrial revolution, driven by AI, as an opportunity the continent must not overlook. He stressed the vast potential for AI to transform Ghana's education sector and wider economy, urging swift government action in AI integration.
Mr Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, the Speaker of Parliament, praised private schools for their role in delivering quality education and urged GNAPS to help instill values of truth, honesty, and patriotism in youth. Mr Donatus Atanga Akamugri, the Upper East Regional Minister, called for strengthened collaboration between the government and the private sector to enhance education.
Tongraan Kugbilsong Nalebetang, Paramount Chief of the Talensi Traditional Area, encouraged private schools to incorporate scholarship schemes for brilliant but needy students, providing opportunities for less privileged children.
