Ghana partnering with Google to introduce AI education tools in local languages – Haruna Iddrisu
The Minister for Education, Haruna Iddrisu, has announced plans to introduce Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies developed in Ghanaian local languages as part of efforts to expand access to quality education across the country.
In a post on Facebook on Friday, January 23, the Minister disclosed that the initiative follows a high-level engagement with the Vice President of Google at the ongoing Generative AI Summit in the United Kingdom, where discussions focused on leveraging technology to transform education in Ghana and across Africa.
“Yesterday, I had a fruitful engagement with the Vice President of Google, where ideas were shared to improve quality education in Ghana and Africa as a whole,” Mr Iddrisu stated.
According to the Minister, Google is collaborating with the University of Ghana and the GDI Hub to advance speech recognition and AI-powered tools for Ghanaian languages such as Twi, Ewe, and Dagbani, with particular attention to non-standard speech to enhance inclusivity in education and digital services.
He further stressed the importance of incorporating Hausa, a widely spoken language in Ghana and across West Africa, to ensure broader regional inclusion.
“The deployment of AI in local languages will help ensure that all learners, including those in rural communities or with disabilities, can access educational resources effectively,” the Minister noted.
Mr Iddrisu also revealed that Google has assured the Ministry that its education tools will be deployed in Ghana on a zero-rated basis, allowing free access without data charges.
The tools will include curriculum-aligned content as well as resources on the responsible use of AI in teaching and learning, ensuring equitable access for learners regardless of location or income level.
“Ghana is not just participating in the AI revolution; we are helping to shape it for Africa,” the Minister added.
He recalled that in July 2025, Google announced a US$37 million investment in AI research and digital skills development across Africa, including the establishment of a new AI Community Center in Accra.
According to the Minister, the investment forms part of Google’s broader US$1 billion commitment to Africa’s digital transformation and firmly positions Ghana as a strategic hub in the continent’s AI and technology ecosystem.
