The Artificial Intelligence for Sustainable Development (AI4SD) project has officially launched the RAIL Robotics Initiative at Tamale Senior High School (TAMASCO) in the Northern Region of Ghana.
Funded by the French Embassy in Ghana and the Agence Française de Développement (AFD), with support from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), the International Development Research Center (IDRC), and Artificial Intelligence for Development (AI4D), this initiative seeks to inspire students in AI and robotics while promoting responsible and ethical technology use.
Meeting with school management
The launch began with a meeting between the AI4SD team and TAMASCO’s management, emphasising the school’s crucial role in advancing technology-driven education. Mr. Mohammed Mustapher, Headmaster of TAMASCO, highlighted the importance of responsible AI advocacy, particularly for young learners who will shape the future.
Mr. Mohammed Mustapher, Headmaster of Tamale Senior High School
“AI can be a force for good or misuse—ethical guidelines are essential to steer its impact toward sustainable development,” he stated. He urged students to embrace AI, regardless of their academic focus, as it applies across all fields. He revealed that the school is discussing with the Ministry of Education the establishment of a Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) centre, where AI, robotics, and related courses will be taught as non-examinable yet critical skills.
Prof. Jerry John Kponyo, Project Lead, AI4SD
Prof. Jerry John Kponyo, AI4SD Project Lead, shared insights from Ghana’s recent participation in the RoboFest World Championship in Michigan, USA, where young Ghanaian innovators competed on a global stage.
“Ghana has the talent to excel in technology—all we need is the right skills and collaboration to unlock greater heights,” he said. He encouraged students to seize this opportunity, stressing that “opportunity comes but once.”
Madam Jane Frances Nachine, Northern Region STMIE Coordinator
Madam Jane Frances Nachine, Northern Region STMIE Coordinator, urged students to maximise the initiative, noting that AI is transforming industries and creating new job opportunities. “Digital skills are no longer optional—they are essential for future employability,” she emphasised.
Musah Ibrahim Ali, AI in Education Theme Member
Musah Ibrahim Ali, AI in Education Theme Member, introduced students to AI fundamentals and ethics, covering:
- Types of AI systems
- Risks and opportunities of AI
- How AI benefits education
- Career pathways in AI
“Anyone with passion can excel in AI—it’s not limited to tech experts,” he affirmed.
Overview of students at the event
Dr. Oteng Gyasi, RAIL LEGO Robotics Trainer, outlined the upcoming RAIL Robotics Challenge, where students will:
- Apply physics and mechanics to build robots
- Develop programming and problem-solving skills
- Compete in RAIL’s first-ever LEGO robotics challenge
Winners will advance to national and international championships, with TAMASCO poised to make history as the inaugural champions.
The event was climaxed in the official inauguration of the TAMASCO AI & Robotics Club, led by Dr. Eunice Akyereko Adjei (AI in Education Theme Lead), following the singing of the national and school anthem and the introduction of mentors and club members.
Jonathan Darko Adoo, RAIL LEGO Robotics Trainer
A hands-on LEGO robotics workshop, facilitated by Jonathan Darko Adoo (RAIL LEGO Robotics Trainer), gave students a practical introduction to robotics, setting the stage for future innovation. He demonstrated how Lego robotics can simulate human-like sensing, processing, and actions, showcasing its potential for creative experimentation through block coding.
Practical session
This initiative marks a significant step in preparing Ghanaian youth for a technology-driven future, fostering innovation, ethical AI use, and global competitiveness.
