Gov’t eyes AI education tools in local languages

By Ernest Bako WUBONTO

The Minister for Education, Haruna Iddrisu, has revealed advanced plans to introduce artificial intelligence (AI) technologies into the local languages programming for educational purposes to foster comprehension and preservation as part of efforts to expand access across the country.

The minister, after a high-level engagement with the Vice President of Google at the ongoing Generative AI Summit in the United Kingdom (UK), where discussions focused on leveraging technology to transform education in Ghana and across Africa, emphasised the vital role of such an initiative in local languages preservation and translation to younger generations.

He indicated that Google is collaborating with the University of Ghana and the Global Disability Innovation (GDI) Hub to advance speech recognition and AI-powered tools for Ghanaian languages such as Twi, Ewe and Dagbani, with particular attention to non-standard speech to enhance inclusivity in education and digital services.

“I had a fruitful engagement with the Vice President of Google, where ideas were shared to improve quality education in Ghana and Africa as a whole. I am also pleased to share that I received firm assurance from Google’s Director of Operations for Africa and the Gemini Lead that Google’s education tools will be deployed in Ghana on a zero-rated basis,” Mr. Iddrisu stated.

He added that the collaboration will focus on relevant tools, including curriculum-aligned content, resources on the responsible use of AI in teaching and learning, as well as ensuring equitable access for learners regardless of location or income level.

The Education Minister further stressed the importance of incorporating Hausa, a widely spoken language in Ghana and across West Africa, to ensure broader regional inclusion.

The deployment of AI in local languages will help ensure that all learners, including those in rural communities or with disabilities, can access educational resources effectively.

He reiterated that Google’s assurance that its education tools will be deployed in Ghana on a zero-rated basis means that students will be able to access them without data charges or paying any subscription charges.

“Ghana is not just participating in the AI revolution; we are helping to shape it for Africa,” the minister added.

In July 2025, Google announced a US$37million investment in AI research and digital skills development across Africa, including the establishment of a new AI Community Centre in Accra.

Mr. Iddrisu emphasised that the investment forms part of Google’s broader US$1billion commitment to Africa’s digital transformation and firmly positions Ghana as a strategic hub in the continent’s AI and technology ecosystem.

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