University of Ghana Empowers Graduates for AI Era as KNUST Neonatal Innovation Wins Global Accolades

24th July•2 min read•4 sources

Ghana's premier tertiary institutions are marking significant milestones in leadership and innovation, as the University of Ghana (UG) prepares for new administrative leadership and celebrates nearly 2,000 new graduates. During the July 2026 congregation ceremonies, the University of Ghana conferred degrees on 1,884 students, including 157 PhDs and 1,429 master’s degrees. Representing the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Felix Ankomah Asante urged the new alumni to harness Artificial Intelligence (AI) and innovative problem-solving to drive national development, emphasizing that the application of knowledge to real-world challenges is essential for Ghana’s growth in a technology-driven global landscape.

Strengthening its administrative capacity for this digital transition, the University of Ghana has appointed Professor Peter Quartey as the Provost of the College of Education. Prof. Quartey, a distinguished economist with over 24 years of experience and a PhD from the University of Manchester, is set to begin his three-year term on August 1, 2026. Having previously served as the Director of the Institute of Statistical, Social and Economic Research (ISSER) and Acting Director of LECIAD, his extensive background in strategic management and corporate governance is expected to bolster the College of Education’s research activities and teacher education programs.

While the University of Ghana focuses on leadership and graduation, the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) continues to lead in practical healthcare innovation. A team of KNUST students recently secured the top prize at the ASCEND Lion’s Den event in Accra for their Automated Neonatal Exchange Transfusion System (ANET). Developed under the leadership of Dr. Prince Odame, the ANET device underwent rigorous market validation and mentoring through the British Council’s ASCEND program. This innovation triumphed over 20 other student-led ventures from across Ghana and Nigeria, highlighting the university's success in turning academic concepts into impactful healthcare solutions.

These developments reflect a broader trend within Ghana's higher education sector to align academic excellence with industrial and societal needs. The British Council’s ASCEND initiative, which supported the KNUST team, underscores the critical role of international partnerships and mentorship in fostering a culture of entrepreneurship among Ghanaian students. As the nation moves forward under the leadership of President John Mahama, the integration of neonatal health technologies, AI-driven development strategies, and robust academic leadership remains central to the country's vision for sustainable progress and global competitiveness.

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University of Ghana Empowers Graduates for AI Era as KNUST Neonatal Innovation Wins Global Accolades

More from education

Data Insight and JOB Group Ltd Report Finds Job Security and Career Development Outrank Salary for Ghanaian Employees

Ghana International Book Fair and Youth Outreach Programs Drive National Literacy and Development Agenda

GES Director-General Links School Financial Governance to WASSCE Performance as Universities Push for Academic Innovation

GNAT Issues Strike Ultimatum as Graduates with Disabilities Demand Specialized Recruitment Clearance