Professor Alexander Adam Kwapong Lecture on Artificial Intelligence and Economic Growth

Event
  • DATE / TIME:
    May 25, 2023    14:00 - 16:00
    Location:
    Accra

    As Africa continues to experience rapid economic growth, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is emerging as a critical driver of innovation and progress. AI has the potential to transform industries, create new business opportunities, and increase efficiency across the continent. But what are AI’s specific challenges and opportunities in the African context, and how can we ensure that the benefits of this technology are shared equitably?

    In this talk, we will examine the relationship between AI and economic growth in Africa, exploring this exciting technology’s unique challenges and opportunities. We will discuss how AI is already being used to drive growth in various African countries, from improving healthcare outcomes to enhancing agriculture and financial services. We will also delve into the specific challenges facing Africa with regard to AI, such as the lack of data infrastructure and talent, and examine ways in which these challenges can be overcome.

    Join us for an insightful discussion on how AI can contribute to economic growth in Africa and how we can ensure that this growth benefits everyone, including underserved communities and marginalized populations.

    Speaker: Professor Tshilidzi Marwala, UNU Rector

    Prior to taking up the role of UNU Rector on 1 March 2023, Prof. Tshilidzi Marwala served as Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the University of Johannesburg (South Africa) from January 2018 through February 2023. He had previously served as that university’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research and Internationalization (2013–2017) and Executive Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment (2009–2013).

    Full biography here.

    Date: Thursday, 25th May 2023

    Time: 2:00 PM prompt (guests including media are expected to be seated by 1.30pm)

    Location: Auditorium, The Great Hall, University of Ghana, Legon

    Theme: AI for Economic Development

    About the Nature Speaks lecture series

    This is the fifth lecture in the Nature Speaks event series commemorating the late Professor Alexander Adum Kwampong, the first Ghanaian Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ghana and the first African Vice- Rector of the United Nations University. The lecture is a part of a series of events that place natural resources at the centre of Africa’s sustainable and inclusive development as a key enabler of social transformation and shared prosperity. It also aims to provide informed insights into the complex issue of natural resource management and to create knowledge spaces where provocative ideas can be shared, debated, and contested. It is anticipated that this will prompt discussions about effective resource management and a call to action in this vital sector.

    Join virtually via YouTube live stream here

    https://youtube.com/live/xaKx0NTAw14?feature=share

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