By Zobia Zulfqar 
The University of Ghana (UG) has announced a major step toward integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and digital skills into its academic programmes, making AI training a central part of undergraduate education to prepare students for an increasingly technology driven world.
The initiative was unveiled during the presentation of 2,000 laptops by the Ministry of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations to the University in support of the Government’s One Million Coders Programme (OMCP). The laptops are expected to enhance students’ access to digital learning tools and strengthen the University’s efforts to equip graduates with practical technology skills.
Vice Chancellor of the University of Ghana, Professor Nana Aba Appiah Amfo, said artificial intelligence has become a strategic priority for the institution because of its growing influence on education, research, industry and public service. She explained that universities must adapt to technological change by preparing students with the knowledge and practical skills needed to thrive in modern workplaces.
According to Professor Amfo, beginning next semester the University will introduce four certifications from the One Million Coders Programme into a compulsory Level 100 course. The move means that every first year undergraduate student will receive foundational training in digital literacy and artificial intelligence regardless of their field of study.
The certifications include Prompting Essentials, AI Essentials, AI Professional and Digital Literacy. These programmes are designed to introduce students to the responsible use of artificial intelligence while helping them develop practical digital competencies that are increasingly required across industries.
Professor Amfo said the University is introducing a new course on Digital Literacy and Applied Artificial Intelligence that will incorporate the certification modules into its curriculum. She described the initiative as an important investment in preparing graduates for the changing demands of the global economy.
She emphasized that the University wants every student to develop a solid understanding of artificial intelligence and learn how to use AI technologies responsibly and ethically. According to her, AI is no longer limited to computer science but has become a tool that influences almost every academic discipline and profession.
The Vice Chancellor explained that embedding AI education across undergraduate programmes would strengthen teaching and learning while improving the employability of graduates. She noted that employers increasingly expect graduates to possess digital competencies alongside traditional academic qualifications.
Professor Amfo also revealed that some lecturers, particularly within the Department of Computer Science, have already begun integrating selected One Million Coders certifications into their courses. The positive response from both students and faculty encouraged the University to expand the initiative across the broader academic community.
She said the University’s long term objective is to ensure graduates leave campus with practical digital skills that complement their academic knowledge. Such skills, she added, will improve innovation, problem solving and adaptability in a rapidly changing workplace driven by emerging technologies.
The One Million Coders Programme forms part of the Government’s broader strategy to strengthen Ghana’s digital economy by providing technology training to young people across the country. The programme seeks to build a workforce equipped with modern digital skills capable of supporting innovation, entrepreneurship and economic transformation.
The donation of laptops is expected to improve students’ access to digital resources, online learning platforms and AI training materials. University officials believe the additional equipment will help remove barriers to participation and enable more students to benefit fully from the programme.
Education experts have increasingly highlighted the importance of integrating artificial intelligence into higher education curricula. As AI continues to reshape industries such as healthcare, finance, agriculture, manufacturing, education and public administration, graduates with AI knowledge are expected to have stronger employment prospects and greater opportunities for career advancement.
The University of Ghana believes its new approach will position students to compete effectively in both local and international job markets. By combining academic instruction with industry recognized certifications, the institution hopes to produce graduates who are ready to meet the evolving needs of employers.
Professor Amfo stressed that while artificial intelligence offers enormous opportunities, students must also understand the ethical responsibilities associated with its use. She said the University’s curriculum will emphasize responsible innovation, critical thinking and the appropriate application of AI technologies across different sectors.
The initiative also reflects the University’s broader commitment to academic excellence and innovation. By placing artificial intelligence and digital literacy at the heart of student training, the institution aims to prepare graduates who can contribute meaningfully to Ghana’s digital transformation while remaining competitive in an increasingly technology driven global economy.