The Design and Technology Institute (DTI) has urged young Ghanaians to embrace artificial intelligence (AI) and strengthen their technical skills for the evolving job market. This call came from Constance Swaniker, DTI Founder and President, at the 2026 DTI Jobs & Opportunities Fair in Accra.
Ms. Swaniker emphasized that Africa's main challenge is not automation itself, but the failure to prepare young people for the new opportunities in an AI-driven economy. The event, themed "Navigating Skills, Careers and the Future of Work: Preparing Young People to Thrive in an AI-Enabled World," connected academia, industry leaders, and hundreds of young people.
This initiative is crucial given Ghana's significant youth unemployment. The Ghana Statistical Service reports that 32.5 percent of individuals aged 15 to 24 are unemployed. This means over 1.3 million young Ghanaians are not in employment, education, or training, highlighting a critical need for skill development.
Ms. Swaniker stated, "We do not train young people for the economy we wish existed. We train them for the economy that exists today and for the one that is emerging." She referenced World Economic Forum projections, which indicate that AI and automation could displace about 85 million jobs globally by 2030. However, these technologies are also expected to create 97 million new roles, making continuous learning essential.
Since its establishment in 2016, DTI has facilitated over 41,000 employment and entrepreneurship opportunities across Ghana. These opportunities stem from its industry-driven training programmes, which focus on practical skills relevant to current market demands.
Anthony Kwame Seyram Zu, Deputy Director-General of the Commission for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (CTVET), reaffirmed the Commission's commitment. He stated CTVET supports skills development, innovation, and artificial intelligence as part of Ghana's TVET transformation agenda. Mr. Zu commended DTI for its demand-driven approach to technical and vocational education.
Dr. David King Boison, CEO of the Knowledge Web Centre and Lead Consultant for the AI Africa Project, encouraged young people to view AI as an enabler. He noted, "Artificial intelligence will not take your job. But a person who knows how to use it might." Dr. Boison highlighted that professions like welding, fabrication, manufacturing, and design will become more valuable when combined with AI and digital technologies.
The emphasis on AI and future-ready skills aligns with Ghana's broader economic strategy to boost human capital and drive industrialization. Equipping the youth with these skills can enhance productivity and competitiveness in the global economy. Policymakers and educational institutions will need to adapt curricula quickly to meet these emerging demands.
The success of these initiatives will depend on sustained collaboration between government, educational bodies, and the private sector. Continued investment in technical and vocational training, particularly in AI-related fields, will be vital. This will ensure Ghana's youth can capitalize on the opportunities presented by technological advancements.