Ghana makes strides in integrating AI into curricula

Ghana is one of 15 countries out of 198 member nations of UNESCO that has successfully integrated artificial intelligence (AI) into its school curricula.

The current Standards-Based Curriculum (SBC) for Computing in Primary Four to Six, primarily focuses on the practical applications of AI.

“Thus, it includes some foundational concepts of AI ethics, it also introduces students to databases, AI techniques, programming and algorithmic thinking. From JHS One to Three, students delve into computational thinking, encompassing the sub-strands of Programming, Algorithms, Robotics and Artificial Intelligence.

“These sub-strands are supported by detailed content standards, indicators and exemplars to guide teachers in effectively achieving the curriculum objectives,” the Director-General of the Ghana Education Service (GES), Dr Eric Nkansah, said.

Strengthening STEM education

He was addressing STEM Coordinators at a week-long transformative retreat on the theme, "Empowering STEM Educators for the Future."

The DG said Ghana had made strides in strengthening STEM education, adding that, “We have also successfully integrated AI competencies into the STEM senior high school curriculum. Courses such as Computer Science, Engineering and Robotics now incorporate AI elements,” he added.

In secondary education, he said computing curriculum, one strand — computational thinking, features sub-strands of App development and web technologies, adding,

“This allows students who choose elective computing to explore the field of AI.

“We have also successfully integrated AI competencies into the STEM senior high school curriculum. Courses such as Computer Science, Engineering and Robotics now incorporate AI elements.”

He said in collaboration with relevant stakeholders, the GES had operationalised and had been managing the Accra High STEM Centre, located on the premises of Accra High School and six STEM senior high schools and retooled science labs in existing schools.

“There is, therefore, the need to build the capacity of our educators to implement these transformative interventions successfully.

“Thus, this retreat is a critical milestone in our journey to equipping our educators with the skills, knowledge, and networks necessary to drive excellence in STEM education,” Dr Nkansah said.

Commendation

He commended the Director of the Science unit of the GES, Olivia Serwaa Opare, for her leadership role in science education in the country and also applauded the facilitators, experts and organisers of the retreat, “For your tireless efforts in making this retreat a success.”

Dr Nkansah charged the participants to, among others, implement the strategies and plans developed during the retreat, share their expertise with colleagues and stakeholders and also continue to collaborate, innovate, and learn from one another.

“Remember, empowering STEM educators means empowering Ghana's future. Our nation's prosperity depends on our learners' skills, knowledge and innovation,” the DG concluded.