Ghana AI Summit and Awards
College of Physicians and Surgeons
July 29, 2026

Good morning.

It is a privilege to join you at the Ghana AI Summit and Awards. On behalf of UNESCO, I extend my sincere congratulations to the organizers, Knowledge Innovations and all their partners, for bringing together such a diverse community of innovators, policymakers, researchers and entrepreneurs. Creating spaces where ideas meet action is essential to shaping a digital future that benefits everyone, and this summit is a valuable contribution to that effort. The event's focus on leveraging artificial intelligence for economic growth, innovation, inclusion and future jobs reflects Ghana's ambition to harness emerging technologies for national development.

I also wish to acknowledge the Government of Ghana, particularly the Ministry for Communication, Digital Technologies and Innovations, for its leadership in advancing the country's digital transformation agenda. The progress Ghana continues to make in expanding digital infrastructure, promoting innovation and creating an enabling environment for emerging technologies demonstrates a strong commitment to building a knowledge-based economy that can compete on the global stage.

Artificial Intelligence presents remarkable opportunities. It has the potential to transform education, improve healthcare, strengthen agriculture, modernize public administration, support scientific research, and unlock new opportunities for businesses and young entrepreneurs. At the same time, these opportunities come with important responsibilities. As AI becomes more integrated into our societies, we must ensure that it strengthens human dignity, protects fundamental rights and leaves no one behind.

This is where UNESCO's mandate becomes particularly relevant.

UNESCO’s stance on AI is clear: it must be a force for good, anchored in ethical principles. In 2021, UNESCO Member States unanimously adopted the Recommendation on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence. This global framework, the first of its kind, serves as a guide to ensure that AI technologies respect human rights, promote peace, and protect the environment. In Ghana, the UNESCO Accra Office is working tirelessly to translate these global standards into local actions, ensuring that the development of AI in this country remains transparent, accountable, and human-centric.

Recognizing that every country's AI journey is unique, UNESCO also developed the AI Readiness Assessment Methodology (RAM). This practical tool supports governments in evaluating their preparedness to adopt AI responsibly across legal, institutional, technological, economic and societal dimensions. More importantly, it helps countries identify strengths, address gaps and develop policies that maximize the benefits of AI while managing potential risks.

Under the theme 'Artificial Intelligence for Economic Growth and Job Creation,' we are not just discussing code and algorithms. We are discussing the future of the Ghanaian worker, the competitiveness of the Ghanaian industry, and the resilience of the Ghanaian economy in a post-digital world.

The UNESCO Accra Office has played a pivotal role in shaping Ghana's digital information ecosystem. We believe that innovation is only successful if it is inclusive. A digital divide is often a gender divide and a geographical divide. Therefore, our focus has been on fostering technological advancements that empower women and reach our rural communities. We are proud to see local AI startups leveraging technology to bridge educational gaps and provide healthcare solutions where they are needed most. Inclusion means that every Ghanaian, regardless of their location or background, has a stake in the AI revolution.

While we celebrate growth, we must also address the anxiety surrounding the future of work. AI will undoubtedly reshape the job market, but it also offers a unique opportunity for job creation. New roles in AI training, data ethics, and algorithmic auditing are emerging. The challenge before us is a challenge of education. We must transform our curricula—from basic schools to tertiary institutions—to emphasize computational thinking and data literacy. UNESCO remains a steadfast partner to the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Employment in ensuring that our TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) programs are future-proofed for the AI era.

The Awards today hold a special significance. They serve to celebrate the pioneers who have turned vision into reality. To the nominees and awardees: by pursuing excellence in AI, you are not just building software; you are building a legacy. You are proving that Ghana possesses the talent and the tenacity to compete at the highest global levels. UNESCO celebrates your achievements as a catalyst for further innovation.

As we move forward, UNESCO calls on all stakeholders to actively engage in this transformative journey:

- To Government: Maintain the momentum in creating an enabling policy environment that balances innovation with safety.

- To Academia: Deepen research into indigenous AI solutions that speak to Ghana's specific socio-economic needs.

- To the Private Sector: Invest in local talent and ensure that ethics are at the core of your commercial AI deployments.

- To Civil Society: Continue your role as the guardian of inclusion, ensuring no one is left behind.

In closing, let us envision a Ghana where AI is a tool for empowerment—where it fuels economic engines, creates sustainable jobs, and upholds the dignity of every citizen. UNESCO stands with you in this journey. 

May this Summit be the beginning of a new chapter of digital excellence for the Republic of Ghana.