• Ghana launches AI training program for civil servants with UNESCO support
• Initiative uses train-the-trainer model, runs through May 2026
• Program supports national AI strategy and public sector digital transformation

Ghanaian authorities this week launched a national program to train civil servants in artificial intelligence (AI), as part of efforts to strengthen public sector capacity and support the country’s digital transformation agenda, where AI is expected to play a central role.

The first cohort of the AI literacy program was held in Accra over three days, from March 24 to 26. Implemented with support from UNESCO, the training will be delivered across four cohorts through May 2026.

The program follows a “train-the-trainer” model aimed at ensuring sustainability. Under this approach, participants were selected to serve as focal points within the public administration and will be responsible for sharing their knowledge with colleagues across ministries, departments and agencies.

During the opening session on March 24, Alfred Nortey, director of general administration at the Ministry of Communications, Digital Technologies and Innovation, outlined the program’s content, which includes core AI concepts such as machine learning, neural networks and the stages of AI system development.

He added that participants would be introduced to the difference between two main types of AI. Predictive AI enables the anticipation of outcomes based on existing data, while generative AI can produce new content. The program also emphasizes human oversight, seen as essential to ensuring the reliability, accuracy and accountability of deployed systems.

The ministry said in a Facebook post that the initiative is expected to strengthen institutional capacity, promote collaboration and support the responsible integration of AI in public administration, positioning the civil service to deliver more efficient, innovative and citizen-focused services.

AI as a driver of public sector efficiency

The program forms part of the implementation of Ghana’s National Artificial Intelligence Strategy (2023-2033). Through this roadmap, authorities aim to leverage AI to drive inclusive growth across sectors, improve living standards and position the country as a leading player in AI on the African continent.

This ambition also reflects global trends. In its “E-Government Survey 2024”, the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA) notes that AI can significantly transform how public administrations operate.

According to the report, automating administrative tasks with AI can increase efficiency, reduce processing times and eliminate redundancies. AI systems can also detect anomalies, process large volumes of data and provide more targeted recommendations to support public decision-making.

DESA also highlights that most countries face the dual challenge of improving public service performance while operating amid budget constraints, making AI a particularly relevant tool.

Examples cited in the report include Singapore, where AI has been integrated into the “Moments of Life” platform to simplify administrative procedures related to birth registration and elderly care. In India, AI is used in agriculture to improve value chains for thousands of farmers. Similar applications have been observed in Togo, the United Kingdom and Croatia.

Managing risks for responsible adoption

Beyond the opportunities, Ghanaian authorities stress the need to regulate AI use while addressing ethical concerns and associated risks. The training program therefore highlights issues such as misinformation, data protection, cybersecurity and algorithmic bias.

On bias, DESA notes that AI systems depend on the data used for training. Any bias or gaps in that data can lead to poor or unequal representation of certain social groups. This risk is particularly significant in public policy, where biased systems can reinforce existing inequalities, especially among marginalized populations.

To address these challenges, Ghanaian authorities plan to prioritize the development of AI systems tailored to the local context. This includes using national data that reflects cultural realities and development priorities, rather than relying heavily on foreign datasets. The objective is to ensure a more equitable, relevant and responsible use of AI in public administration.

Isaac K. Kassouwi