Director-General of the Ghana-India Kofi Annan Centre of Excellence in ICT (GI-KACE), Dr. Collins Yeboah-Afari, has expressed confidence that the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into the ICT sector will not result in job losses.
Instead, he emphasized that AI is designed to complement human efforts, streamline work processes, and empower the existing workforce.
Speaking at the 20th-anniversary launch of GI-KACE, Dr. Yeboah-Afari highlighted the role of AI in enhancing efficiency and facilitating tasks.
He reassured that AI should be viewed as a tool to empower the workforce rather than replace it.
He also pointed out global efforts to regulate the use of AI, preventing any potential misuse and ensuring responsible deployment of the technology.
The event marked the unveiling of a new logo for the centre, symbolizing its vision, commitment to innovation, and dedication to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through strategic partnerships.
The theme of the launch was ‘Building a Digital Legacy: Celebrating 20 Years of IT Training Excellence.’
Dr. Yeboah-Afari outlined the organization’s vision for the next five years, aspiring to see its trainees actively competing for employment opportunities at prominent technology companies such as Microsoft and Google.
He mentioned the recent launch of a class focused on training individuals in cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence and data analytics.
Additionally, the “Restart Programme,” sponsored by the World Bank, was introduced to provide free training to citizens in Microsoft AI, Power Intelligence, and other relevant areas.
Dr. Yeboah-Afari emphasized the commitment of GI-KACE to support individuals in adapting to new technologies, with trainers and lecturers continually upgrading their skills.
He expressed gratitude to current and previous leaders, including Minister Ursula Owusu-Ekuful and former Director-Generals Dorothy K. Gordon and Mr. Kwasi Adu-Gyan, for their unwavering support throughout the 20-year journey, recognizing their pivotal contributions to the center’s growth.
Deputy Minister for Communications and Digitalisation, Ama Pomaa Boateng, commended GI-KACE for its impactful contributions to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with a particular emphasis on promoting inclusivity, gender equality, and economic growth.
Representing the sector Minister at the 20th-anniversary celebration of GI-KACE, the Deputy Minister praised the centre for being a beacon of knowledge, nurturing talent, conducting groundbreaking research, and developing innovative ICT solutions over the past two decades.
She highlighted GI-KACE’s dedication to several SDG goals, with a focus on inclusivity for persons with disabilities and support for women.
In line with SDG 4 – Quality Education, the Deputy Minister emphasised that GI-KACE has played a vital role as a catalyst for transformative learning experiences, ensuring that youth, including those with disabilities, have access to high-quality ICT education.
By breaking down barriers and creating an inclusive learning environment, the centre empowers individuals to reach their full potential, irrespective of physical abilities.
Regarding the newly unveiled logo, the Deputy Minister explained its significance that the predominant blue color represents confidence and trustworthiness, while the globe icon signifies the centre’s global perspective and its aim of contributing to worldwide digital transformation.
The interlinked dots in the logo symbolize the centre’s commitment to connectivity, inclusivity, and digital transformation.
Emphasizing the importance of building a digital legacy that is inclusive and accessible to all, regardless of gender, ability, or background, the Deputy Minister noted that GI-KACE has not only met but surpassed its initial mandate.
The event marked the launch of the centre’s new logo and celebrated its achievements in advancing ICT education and training in Ghana, aligning with broader global goals for sustainable development and inclusivity.
Founded in 2003 with the guidance of the late Kofi Annan, the centre has been a catalyst for transformative learning experiences, contributing to the national agenda for digital transformation.
Under the diplomatic initiatives of Professor Aaron Mike Oquaye and former President John Agyekum Kufuor, GI-KACE has operated seamlessly under the Ministry of Communications and Digitalisation.
The center’s commitment to shaping the technological landscape in Ghana is evident through its various initiatives and programs.
It has been instrumental in providing high-quality ICT education, empowering individuals with the skills needed to thrive in the digital era.