The wrong, ignorant and inappropriate use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) by Ghanaian youth could stall its positive potential especially when it comes to the development of human capital for a digital future.

This could lead to unhealthy over-reliance, ethical breaches, and data privacy risks that could cause unintended harm to others, and hinder critical and creative thinking.

IndabaX Ghana summit has assembled 600 enthusiastic youth to advance the trance of democratizing data science literacy and fostering supportive communities across the country.

The unsafe and unfamiliar usage of artificial intelligence tools in sectors of education, technology, and business are a growing concern.

A major factor contributing to this is the little to no knowledge on positive potentials of AI.

The IndabaX Ghana 2024 summit in Kumasi, has gathered technology enthusiasts under the theme, “Unleashing the potential of AI through grassroots engagement.”

Through diverse sessions, including a research showcase, industry and networking opportunities, and hands-on workshops, the summit aims to bridge the knowledge gap and equip participants with practical skills in AI.

The three-day event has assembled Ghanaian youth in a stimulating discussion on Data Science, Machine Learning, and Artificial Intelligence (AI).

Executive Chair of the Conference Steering Committee, Delali Agbenyegah, said the grassroot engagement of youth will facilitate positive awareness of the potentials of Artificial Intelligence.

“The mission is to boost capacity and create awareness about AI and how young people can take advantage of Artificial Intelligence in sectors and improve our systems. Our training is focused on responsible AI and it is important to involve the young people.

“Knowledge about AI is centralized in the Western world. So we are bringing people to learn whilst we plant a seed of possibilities of AI in them. This will ensure that we are developing systems, because these young people will fill these systems,” he said.

The summit assembled technology experts, and data scientists across the world to engage and mentor the enthusiastic participants.

Associate Professor, Responsible Al Lab, KNUST, Prof. Jerry John Kponyo said the country should plan strategically for AI adoption.

“New jobs are going to be created as a result of AI. And it is affecting key areas like energy, agriculture, etc. What it means is that we should be able to strategically position ourselves in a way that we could maximize the benefits of AI.

“Criticisms are about the negative effects of AI. Which is why there is a responsible AI Lab. We are hoping to enhance the positives to be able to guard against the negatives,” he said.

Vice Chancellor, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Prof Mrs Rita Akosua Dickson disclosed that the university is preparing to build capacity for KNUST staff on AI.

“The university is preparing to organize a summer school for all staff on AI. The whole concept is that at the end of the day, it is very key that no one is left behind.

“We must build the capacity of not just students, but staff and everyone who matters. Whilst we do that, responsible usage of AI must be championed. Which is why this summit matters,” she said.

The IndabaX Ghana 2024 summit is in partnership with KNUST Responsible AI Lab, Deep Learning Indaba, Google, NVIDIA, GIZ Digital, Transformation Center and FAIR Forward, Maverick, Research, Aya Data, WiMLDS Accra, Mozilla, MTN Ghana, and Wave-2 Analytics.

This year’s conference marks the 5th anniversary of IndabaX Ghana.