The Responsible AI Lab (RAIL) at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) has made significant strides globally, emerging as one of only 50 projects selected from over 700 submissions showcased at the World AI Summit in Paris.
The summit, held at the Grand Palais, serves as a landmark event in global technology governance, drawing together industry leaders, academic visionaries, and policymakers to shape the future of artificial intelligence. RAIL’s selection highlights Ghana’s role in advancing AI solutions with real-world impact.
At the heart of RAIL’s participation is its groundbreaking work on AI-powered solutions for rare diseases. This innovative research represents a significant milestone in African AI development, demonstrating the potential for homegrown solutions to address complex healthcare challenges.
Prof. Jerry John Kponyo, Principal Investigator and Scientific Director, RAIL, expressed optimism about the summit’s potential impact. “This summit provides a unique platform to showcase Africa’s capabilities in AI research. More importantly, it strengthens Ghana’s resolve to develop and adopt AI strategies that drive economic transformation and improve healthcare outcomes,” he noted.
He said RAIL’s work aligns with Ghana’s broader efforts to craft a comprehensive AI strategy that prioritises inclusivity, ethical considerations, and tangible societal benefits.
“RAIL’s presence at the summit is further bolstered by support from the French Embassy, reflecting a broader initiative to ensure that African voices help shape global AI policies. This is not just about showcasing innovation; it’s about forging meaningful partnerships that enable African nations to co-create AI governance frameworks rather than being passive recipients of external regulations,” Prof. Kponyo emphasised.
The summit’s diverse lineup of discussions includes contributions from global AI leaders, with a special focus on African perspectives.
Beyond the summit, Ghana’s AI landscape continues to evolve, with RAIL at the forefront of driving responsible and impactful AI research. The lab’s participation in this global event reinforces the importance of collaborative knowledge-sharing and the need to establish structures that empower African researchers and institutions to lead AI innovation.
As the World AI Summit unfolds, RAIL’s contributions signal a shift in the international technology landscape—one where African ingenuity plays a central role in defining AI’s future. The recognition of Ghana’s AI capabilities at this level affirms the potential of locally developed solutions to address pressing global challenges while setting the stage for sustainable AI-driven development across the continent.
With the momentum gained from this global platform, RAIL is poised to expand its research initiatives, strengthen partnerships, and continue advocating for AI policies that serve the common good. The journey towards responsible AI in Africa is just beginning, and the impact of Ghana’s contributions to this transformative field will resonate for years to come.
