The Pro Vice-Chancellor of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Professor David Asamoah, has called for a clear national and institutional policy on Artificial Intelligence (AI) to ensure its responsible use and full benefits.
Speaking at the closing ceremony of the 11th KNUST Summer School, Professor Asamoah urged universities to adopt ethical and creative approaches to AI integration.
“We must embrace critical thinking and use AI responsibly,” he said. “Appropriate policies will help regulate its application and ensure progress.”
He expressed hope that participants would apply the lessons from the three-day event in their work and follow up on recommendations made by the various units and committees.
This year’s Summer School, held on the theme “Artificial Intelligence in Education,” featured expert presentations and hands-on sessions demonstrating how AI tools can enhance teaching, research, and administration.
Participants included senior members, administrative and professional staff, technicians, and junior staff.
Professor Asamoah noted that AI should not replace traditional teaching or management systems but rather improve efficiency.
“AI is not here to replace us; it is here to enhance our capabilities,” he said.
He commended Professor Francis Kemausuor, Chairperson of the 2025 Summer School Committee, and his team for their efforts and thanked sponsors for their support.
Professor Jerry John Kponyo, Outgoing Dean of the Quality Assurance and Planning Office, said the event began with reflections from experts including Dr. Shafika Isaacs of UNESCO and Mr. Darlington Akogo, CEO of minoHealth AI Labs and KaraAgro AI.
He stressed the need to adapt academic operations to the realities of AI. “AI has come to stay. We must reskill and review our teaching methods so that the way we teach and learn reflects this new reality,” he said. “Whether AI serves us well or not depends on how we use it.”
Professor Kponyo added that the success of the Summer School would be measured by how effectively KNUST integrates AI into its daily operations.
The event featured presentations from colleges and units on applying AI tools to university work. The theme reflected AI’s growing role in sectors including agriculture, healthcare, transport, communication, education, and finance.
Sponsors included Artificial Intelligence for Sustainable Development, The Brew-Hammond Energy Centre, the Regional Water, Environment and Sanitation Centre (RWESCK), Verna, besaCare Diagnostic Centre, Bigoo Cola, Multinec, MTN, MOBMAT, Adwoba Catering Services, Muchia, Sanbra Restaurant, Silver Lobster, and TEKTV. Individual sponsors were Professors John Humphrey Amuasi, Peter Donkor, Alexander Yaw Debrah, Ellis Owusu-Dabo, and Fred Stephen Sarfo.
