Accra: Dr Bryan Acheampong, Member of Parliament for Abetifi, emphasized the necessity for Ghana to develop a national Artificial Intelligence (AI) strategy that aligns with the country's priorities, such as anticipating demographic trends and safeguarding data sovereignty. He highlighted that Ghana must define its goals for AI in sectors like agriculture, education, finance, and governance by supporting these ambitions with infrastructure, policy, and talent development.
According to Ghana News Agency, Dr Acheampong shared his insights during a lecture at the University of Media, Arts and Communication (UniMAC) in Accra. The event, themed 'AI Disruption and the Future of Work: Readiness of our Youth,' was organized by UniMAC's Institute of Journalism and the Faculty of PR, Advertising, and Marketing (FoPAM). He stressed that Ghana should not remain a passive consumer of AI technologies developed elsewhere but should instead become architects of its own AI ecosystem, rooted in national values, data sovereignty, and inclusive development.
Dr Acheampong advocated for the creation of a National AI Policy Framework to establish sectoral priorities, investment guidelines, ethical deployment, and data sovereignty protection. He proposed the establishment of an AI and Emerging Technologies Commission to oversee cross-sectoral adoption, risk assessment, and strategic planning, modeled after existing regulatory bodies like the National Communication Authority. This commission should include stakeholders from academia, civil society, business, and government.
He encouraged the youth, especially students, to view AI not just as a subject, but as a language to master, urging them to use AI to promote truth, creativity, and inclusion, while maintaining ethical standards. Dr Acheampong highlighted that AI is reshaping the work landscape in Ghana and called for a national culture that embraces innovation as a path to progress.
Dr Acheampong concluded by advocating for a Ghana AI Future Taskforce to coordinate national efforts, integrate AI literacy into education, and build public trust in AI. He promised to support UniMAC with 50 computers and AI tools to enhance teaching and learning. Professor Christiana Hammond, Rector of the Institute of Journalism at UniMAC, expressed appreciation for Dr Acheampong's lecture and support, noting the importance of advancing AI education in Ghana.
