President Mahama Urges Russia-Africa Collaboration to Harness AI for Local Solutions
President John Dramani Mahama has called for stronger cooperation between Ghana, Russia and other African countries in artificial intelligence, digital innovation, scientific research and technical education to equip young people with the skills needed to benefit from technological change.
In his address at the 3rd Russia-Africa Summit in Moscow, President Mahama pointed to opportunities for partnerships among universities, research institutions, businesses and public agencies to support joint research, skills development and the transfer of technology.
He said cooperation in emerging technologies should go beyond adopting solutions developed elsewhere to building Africa’s own capacity to participate in research, innovation and the development of digital systems.
President Mahama identified artificial intelligence as an area in which Ghana, Russia and other African countries could deepen collaboration, particularly in developing skills and infrastructure that would enable African economies to apply new technologies to local challenges.
Potential areas of application include agriculture, healthcare, education, transport management, municipal services, tax collection and environmental monitoring. Cooperation in these fields could support more efficient public services while creating opportunities for research and innovation tailored to African needs.
The President also called for stronger links between Ghana and Russia in science and technical education, building on the longstanding educational relations between the two countries.
He recalled his experience as a student in Moscow on a full scholarship between 1986 and 1988, an experience that forms part of his personal connection to Russia.
He acknowledged Russia’s historical contribution to the education and training of African students, noting the value of such relationships in developing the human resources needed to advance national development.
President Mahama’s call for closer cooperation in education and research also points to opportunities for Ghana and Russia to strengthen technical training, promote knowledge exchange and prepare young people for changing demands in the labour market.
Through partnerships involving universities, research institutions and industry, both countries could support the development of practical skills, strengthen local research capacity and encourage the application of scientific knowledge to economic and social development.
The President’s remarks formed part of the wider discussions at the Russia-Africa Summit, which brought together leaders and representatives to explore areas of cooperation between Russia and African countries.
He urged participants to ensure that the opportunities identified at the summit translate into practical outcomes, with partnerships delivering benefits that citizens can see in their communities and daily lives.
For Ghana, deeper cooperation in artificial intelligence, digital innovation and technical education could support efforts to develop local expertise, improve public services and prepare its workforce for an increasingly technology-driven economy.
Richard Aniagyei, ISD
