Accra: Hallmark Research Lab, a Ghanaian-based artificial intelligence research entity, has entered into a significant partnership with the University of Professional Studies Accra (UPSA) to establish a state-of-the-art Artificial Intelligence (AI) Lab at the university.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Philip Gamey, the Executive Chairman of Hallmark Research, emphasized during the signing ceremony that the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) marks the beginning of a collaborative future aligned with the Presidential Special Initiative on Artificial Intelligence. He described the agreement as a critical milestone in the field of AI, foreseeing it as a transformative step in the development of artificial intelligence.
The collaboration involves a substantial investment of $240 million by Hallmark Research Lab over the next decade. Mr. Gamey highlighted that this initiative would unite top talent from both the industry and the academic world, providing them with resources and freedom to explore new frontiers in AI. He underscored the importance of academic freedom and diverse perspectives in harnessing AI’s full potential for the betterment of humanity.
Mr. Gamey expressed optimism that the AI Lab would enhance Ghana’s competitiveness, attract investments, and generate high-quality employment opportunities. The Lab aims to address Ghana’s AI-related challenges, particularly labor substitution, by redefining jobs and preparing Ghanaians for emerging, higher-paying job opportunities. The Lab is envisioned to foster new AI applications that will spur scientific discovery, revolutionize healthcare, and create opportunities across various sectors.
Mr. Emmanuel Kwadwo Agyekum, Minister of State in Charge of Special Initiatives and MP for Nkoranza South Constituency, remarked on the pivotal role of AI in contemporary society, emphasizing its permanence and vast potential to create employment opportunities.
Professor John Kwaku Mensah Mawutor, Vice Chancellor of UPSA, acknowledged that the MoU would provide facilities for UPSA lecturers and enhance research capacity in AI and information technology. He praised the minister and Hallmark Research Lab for selecting UPSA as a partner in this groundbreaking initiative.