KNUST to train lecturers, staff on AI

Stakeholders at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) are emphasising the essence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its incorporation in teaching, learning, and other essential activities.

Speaking during the Ghana Data Science Summit 2024 and the launch of the 5th Anniversary of the INDABAX Ghana conference hosted by KNUST’s Responsible Artificial Intelligence Lab (RAIL) under the theme “Unleashing the Potential of AI through Grassroot Engagement,” the Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof. Mrs. Rita Akosua Dickson, underscored the role and importance of AI in the 21st century and the need to be abreast of it for easy and efficient work.

She indicated that the university is preparing to organise a summer school on AI for all lecturers and staff to equip them with the necessary skills and knowledge in AI to ensure efficiency and efficacy as a leading science and technology university.

“It is important for us that as we train the next transformational leaders not just for the country or sub-region, not just for Africa but globally, we need to focus on training an AI-ready workforce and equipping the new generation of researchers with the knowledge and skills that we need to stay on top of our game,” she said.

The Vice Chancellor also disclosed that the university, through its RAIL under the leadership of Prof Jerry John Kponyo, has partnered the Ministry of Communication and Digitiaation, GIZ, and others in drafting a national AI strategy. This strategy, when adopted, will serve as a blueprint to advance the country’s AI agenda.

Delali Agbenyegah, executive chair of the conference, in an interview called for inclusive and comprehensive AI education at the basic level.

He said the conference was aimed at building capacity and creating awareness about AI and how Ghanaians could leverage AI in various sectors to improve systems and processes and harness new technology.

Agbenyegah indicated the conference’s commitment to training participants on responsible AI, mentioning that 1500 people have been trained since its commencement in 2019.

Prof Kponyo, Scientific Director at the RAIL echoed the essence and benefits of AI in the economic development of every country, highlighting that 97 million new jobs are expected to be created because of AI.

He indicated that AI is affecting key areas of the economy such as agriculture, healthcare, energy, finance, and others.

He also stressed the need for Ghana to strategically position itself in AI and called for a review of the curriculum to include AI training and education at the basic level, emphasising the need to harness the positives and guard against the negatives of AI use.

Prof Kponyo noted the urgency of adopting and implementing the National AI strategy.

“When it comes to identifying diseases and finding their cures, it is limited by the available information. Thanks to AI, there is now abundant data on diseases that we previously did not know about. What we are doing at the RAIL is leveraging technology to identify factors related to rare diseases.”

“Previously, diseases that affected children and could quickly lead to death can now be preempted due to the use of AI. This represents a positive dimension in the use of AI,” Prof. Kponyo explained.

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