Accra: Google is collaborating with the University of Ghana and Global Disability Innovation (GDI) Hub to develop speech recognition and Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools in Ghanaian local languages to improve education accessibility and digital services. Mr. Haruna Iddrisu, the Minister of Education, shared updates on Facebook after engaging with the Vice President of Google on the sidelines of the Generative AI Summit held in the United Kingdom.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Iddrisu received assurance from Google's Director of Operations for Africa and the Gemini lead that Google's education tools would be deployed in Ghana on a zero-rated basis. This initiative includes curriculum-aligned content and resources on the responsible use of AI in teaching and learning, ensuring access for all learners regardless of location or income.
Mr. Iddrisu emphasized that Ghana is not just participating in the AI revolution, but also helping to shape it for Africa. He also advocated for the inclusion of Hausa, which is widely spoken across Ghana and West Africa, in the development of the AI tools. He highlighted that integrating Hausa will deepen regional inclusion and further strengthen Ghana's leadership as an AI innovation hub on the continent.
In a related development, Google announced in July 2025 a US$37 million investment in AI research and digital skills development across Africa. This includes the launch of a new AI Community Centre in Accra, forming part of its broader US$1 billion commitment to Africa's digital transformation and positioning Ghana as a key hub in this journey.