Publication Details
Title:
PRIMARY BARRIERS TO WIDESPREAD ADAPTATION OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN EDUCATION IN AFRICA: A CASE OF PRIVATE UNIVERSITIES IN GHANA.
Details:
Abstract
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping industries across the globe, and Africa is no exception. Adaptation of Artificial intelligence in every aspect of the economy is an opportunity to develop Africa's competitiveness. AI is an emerging technology that has the potential to enhance teaching and learning in higher education greatly, and also reduce the cost of education by making education accessible to all. However, research has shown that introducing AI in educational settings also presents challenges and potential risks that need to be addressed. Africa faces several known challenges in AI development. Among such challenges are insufficient infrastructure, lack of skilled personnel, limited funding, lack of robust data ecosystems, lack of skilled personnel, limited funding, lack of investment, scarcity of specialized talent, limited access to advanced training opportunities, and a lack of structured mentoring programs, all of which prevent the continent from fully harnessing the power of AI. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is poised to have a significant impact on future in Africa, much like in other parts of the world. While the specific effects will depend on various factors including the pace of AI adoption, technological infrastructure, and lack of sustainable government policies, there are several potential impacts to consider: However, the challenges facing the adoption of AI technologies in Africa are numerous and have already crashed many industries. Experts believed that increasing the adoption of AI in Africa requires the development of vibrant ecosystems based on five stakeholders who form the foundation of building AI success including policymakers, universities, large companies, start-ups, and multi-stakeholder partnerships. Without addressing these challenges, Ghana and Africa as a whole will continue to lag behind countries in the global world. This paper therefore revealed the AI challenges faced by most Africa countries and especially Private Universities in Ghana. In Ghana and around the World, Universities are embracing AI applications like the ChatGPT, Bard, DeepSeek and Midjourney each offering new capacity for research, creativity and Classroom engagement. However, their rapid adaptation trigger debate about ethical usage, equitable access and regulatory oversight. This research aims to inform policy decisions, share best practices and invite robust dialogue among educator, policy makers and technologist seeking to innovation with responsible governance. The main source of information was secondary resources on the emerging and transformative technology (AI). A Primary data was also gathered from a field survey using interview questionnaires of Fifty (50) faculty members from Five (5) different Private Universities in Accra, Ghana to unearth some of the challenges faced by the industry player on the adaptation of AI.