The Ghana Science Association has trained over 150 Senior High School teachers. The training focused on integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) into classrooms. This event took place in Kumasi. Teachers from the Ashanti Region attended the workshop. It was held at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST). The goal is to prepare students for a future where AI is widespread.
Experts emphasized AI's growing role in global education. They urged teachers to embrace these new technologies. This will help improve teaching and learning. AI can significantly support educational processes. It can help prepare students for the demands of the future job market. The workshop highlighted that AI is no longer science fiction. It is now a part of everyday tools. This includes phones and search engines.
Ghana risks falling behind if its teachers are not trained in AI. Dr. Emmanuel Ahene, from KNUST's Computer Science department, warned about this. He chairs the Local Organising Committee for the event. He stated that students will lag behind peers in other nations. Many countries are already using AI in their schools. This training is a crucial step to avoid that gap. The initiative is vital for Ghana's economic competitiveness.
Professor Jacob Agbenorhevi, Head of Food Science and Technology at KNUST, spoke at the event. He is also a former President of the university's Ghana Science Association branch. He stressed that AI should complement human intelligence. It should not replace it. He compared AI to other tools that have improved life. These tools increase efficiency. Teachers need to learn these new skills. This allows them to guide the next generation effectively. Responsible AI use is key. It should boost productivity, not laziness.
Professor Alexander Kwarteng, President of the KNUST branch of the Ghana Science Association, also spoke. He highlighted that AI is here to stay. Around 90% of jobs by 2030 might be AI-related. This makes AI familiarization critical for STEM teachers. AI can reduce teacher workload. This is important in large classrooms. AI can help with lesson planning. It can also assist in marking assessments. This frees up teacher time for more effective learning analysis. Abstract science and math concepts can become clearer. AI can create visual learning tools. This helps students grasp difficult topics better.
Teachers at the workshop expressed enthusiasm. Comfort Akosuah Serwaa Mensah, a Mathematics teacher, shared her expectations. She hopes to use AI to prepare better lesson notes. She also believes AI will help students solve more math problems. AI can assist students with critical and challenging questions. The interest in this training has been high. Several institutions have asked for more access. The Ghana Science Association plans to expand these training programs. This ensures wider adoption of AI in Ghanaian education.