Ghanaian technical universities must deeply reform their education, research, and industry engagements. This is necessary to remain relevant in an era dominated by Artificial Intelligence (AI) and other emerging technologies.
Professor Dr. Ron S.J. Tuninga, Rector of Wittenborg University of Applied Sciences in the Netherlands, made this call. He spoke at the Seventh Vice-Chancellor’s Distinguished Lecture at Ho Technical University (HTU) on June 17, 2026. The lecture’s theme was 'Business Practice Education and Research in the Era of AI: Implications for Technical Universities in Ghana'.
This push for AI integration aligns with Ghana's broader economic and technological goals. The nation launched its AI Strategy to declare digital sovereignty and leverage technology for development. Integrating AI into technical education is vital for Ghana to produce a workforce capable of driving industrial transformation. This initiative also helps address concerns about economic competitiveness and job creation in a rapidly evolving global market.
Professor Tuninga stressed that AI-driven transformation is no longer optional. He called it an urgent necessity for higher education institutions seeking to remain competitive globally. He explained that rapid advances in machine learning, robotics, and cybersecurity are fundamentally reshaping the future of work. The skills required in modern industries are also changing rapidly. "The focus should shift from memorization to judgement, critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving," Professor Tuninga stated. He added that higher-order cognitive skills will become more valuable as AI handles routine cognitive functions.
Ghanaian technical universities must now comprehensively review their curricula. They need to integrate AI, machine learning, and data analytics into both technical and business education programs. This must include embedding ethics and responsible AI use into academic training. Strengthening partnerships with industry and research institutions is also crucial. These institutions should become centers for lifelong learning, offering flexible programs for continuous upskilling and reskilling.
The Vice-Chancellor of HTU, Professor Ben Q. Honyenuga, described the lecture as timely and highly relevant. He reaffirmed HTU’s commitment to integrating emerging technologies into its academic programs. This includes strengthening research capacity and deepening collaborations with industry and international partners. These reforms could lead to increased productivity and reduced operational costs across various sectors. They could also foster new entrepreneurial ecosystems in Ghana. However, challenges like inadequate digital infrastructure and a shortage of skilled professionals must be overcome for Ghana to fully benefit from AI.