Nation Risks Falling Behind Without AI Integration in Education – Dr Mensaklo

Abor: Dr. Emmanuel Mensaklo, a lecturer in the Department of Economics Education at the University of Education, Winneba, emphasized the urgent need for the integration of AI, data science, and digital skills into national educational systems and economic strategies. He warned that any nation failing to adopt these advancements would inevitably lag behind its global counterparts. According to Ghana News Agency, Dr. Mensaklo's remarks were part of a lecture at Abor Senior High School, marking the climax of its 60th Anniversary Celebration. The event celebrated the school's longstanding commitment to excellence and community engagement under the theme, '60 Years of Impactful Journey: Providing Transformative Secondary Education Through Indigenous Values and 21st Century Skills.' Dr. Mensaklo highlighted the necessity of systematically implementing these skills in education, drawing attention to past failed initiatives as cautionary tales. He argued that Ghana's future depends on nurturing citizens who embody both traditional values and modern educational goals. Addressing the topic, 'The Role of 21st-century Skills in Providing Transformative Secondary Education in Ghana,' he underscored the importance of integrating critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and communication into the education system to prepare students for an AI-driven future. Moreover, Dr. Mensaklo stressed that these technical skills must be grounded in human values like empathy and moral courage, warning that their absence could render technical proficiency dangerous. Professor Edem Kwasi Bakah, from the University of Cape Coast, also spoke on the significance of indigenous values in education. He attributed the erosion of these values to key societal stakeholders, challenging them to restore these values in youth education. He praised the government's School Farm Initiative as a potential vehicle for teaching valuable life skills beyond mere sustenance. Reverend Dr. Seth Gocky Agbeyome, headmaster of Abor Senior High School, called f or support in infrastructure development and mentorship to further elevate the school's status. The anniversary celebration, attended by various dignitaries and alumni, showcased the school's dedication to producing well-rounded and morally grounded citizens who contribute to national development.