The Head of the Department of Computer Engineering at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi (KNUST) and Scientific Director of the DIPPER Lab, Prof. Eric Tutu Tchao, has called for stronger global collaboration to ensure that artificial intelligence (AI) and other disruptive technologies contribute meaningfully to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Prof. Tutu Tchao joined policymakers, development partners, researchers and industry leaders from around the world at the 2026 Hamburg Sustainability Conference in Germany to discuss solutions to global sustainability challenges.

The conference was opened by H.E. Frank-Walter Steinmeier, President of Germany, and featured engagements with international leaders, development practitioners and technology experts focused on advancing sustainable development.

According to Prof. Tutu Tchao, "Leveraging Artificial Intelligence to achieve the SDGs is no longer just a technical endeavour; it is a collective moral imperative."

He stressed the need for a global alliance that enables countries in the Global South to play a more active role in developing solutions to global challenges.

"We need to build a shared future where the Global South is not just a consumer of solutions but a co-creator," he said.

During the conference, Prof. Tutu Tchao engaged policymakers and venture capitalists on how projects and initiatives being undertaken by the DIPPER Lab and KNUST that apply AI and other emerging technologies can be leveraged to address sustainable development challenges in Ghana.

The projects showcased the application of technology to improve agricultural and textile value chains, strengthen environmental monitoring systems and support sustainable development efforts.

As part of his engagements, Prof. Tutu Tchao participated in discussions on innovative financing mechanisms to support entrepreneurs developing technology-driven solutions across Africa.

"We cannot rely on traditional financing alone. We need bold mechanisms to unlock capital for African entrepreneurs building the next generation of homegrown solutions," he said.

He also explored opportunities for partnerships to promote inclusive AI development and held discussions with private sector stakeholders on the application of blockchain technology to improve transparency, accountability and financing for projects aligned with the SDGs.

Prof. Tutu Tchao expressed appreciation to organisations supporting these efforts and reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening partnerships that harness technology to advance sustainable development.