Professor Jerry John Kponyo, a renowned expert in telecommunications engineering at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), emphasizes that Ghana must adopt a strategic approach to leverage the vast opportunities presented by Artificial Intelligence (AI) and unlock its full potential for national benefit.
At the Ghana Data Summit (INABAXGHANA) in Kumasi, Prof. Kponyo highlighted that Artificial Intelligence (AI) is the primary driver of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, and is presently revolutionizing various sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, energy, finance, and commerce, thereby transforming economies worldwide.
Professor Kponyo emphasized that Artificial Intelligence (AI) holds vast potential and Ghana has the opportunity to harness its benefits strategically, positioning itself to unlock maximum advantages that can propel economic growth and development.
“We have to recognize that AI is a game changer, intentionally we plan as a nation and have a strategy with reference to where we want to be in the next decade and beyond”.
The summit, held under the theme “Unleashing the Potentials of AI through Grassroots Engagements.”
Professor Kponyo, head of the Responsible Artificial Intelligence Lab (RAIL) at KNUST, pointed out that worries have been expressed about the harmful consequences of Artificial Intelligence.
Despite concerns about AI’s adverse effects, Professor Kponyo emphasized that the Responsible Artificial Intelligence Lab (RAIL) is promoting a proactive approach, urging that “let’s harness the positives in AI and guard against the negatives.”
Professor Kponyo noted that Ghana is fortunate to have developed a comprehensive Artificial Intelligence Strategy (2023-2033), thanks to the collaborative efforts of the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ) and the Ministry of Communications, which will guide the country’s AI journey.
Story by : Michael Seh
