Ghana will host a virtual data science conference on Saturday, June 27, 2026. Professor Andy Asare, a data science analytics expert from the University of Calgary, will headline the event. He urges African nations to use data science to address complex national problems.
This conference follows a broader push to advance digital transformation across Africa. Professor Asare highlights data science as crucial for improving healthcare, agriculture, education, and financial inclusion. It aims to empower Africa's next generation of tech talent.
The initiative aligns with Ghana's strategic focus on artificial intelligence (AI) and data-driven technologies. President John Dramani Mahama recently launched a landmark GHS 2.5 billion National Artificial Intelligence Strategy. This strategy aims to accelerate digital transformation and economic growth.
Professor Andy Asare has over 15 years of experience teaching data science programs. He believes data science can enhance government services. He stated, "Countries such as Ghana, Kenya, Rwanda, Nigeria, and South Africa are increasingly recognizing the strategic importance of AI and data-driven innovation as a catalyst for economic growth and national development."
The President emphasized Ghana's commitment to actively design and deploy AI solutions. This will drive national transformation and global competitiveness. Morocco, Egypt, Rwanda, Mauritius, and Tunisia have also developed national AI strategies.
Professor Asare noted that Africa's challenge is not a lack of talent. He believes the continent has innovative, resilient, and ambitious people. The challenge lies in expanding opportunities and strengthening digital infrastructure.
Increased investments and robust research ecosystems are also crucial. These elements will enable African talent to thrive. He believes Africa can become a significant force in shaping the global AI revolution.
Professor Asare has organized academic boot camps and datathons in Ghana. These programs at the University of Cape Coast, Ghana Communication Technology University, and Central University equipped students with predictive analytics and machine learning skills. He also helped create an online MSc in Data Management and Analysis at UCC.
The upcoming conference will feature other prominent speakers. These include Toku Duke, Founder & CEO of Diverse AI, and Rishabh Dhingra, AI Product Manager at Google. Rajesh Kumar, Founder of ComCode Technology, will also speak. Emmanuel Awuni Kolog, Associate Professor at the University of Ghana and Chief Data Scientist at the Bank of Ghana, is a panelist. Nadia Delanoy and Soroush Sabbaghan from the University of Calgary are also panelists. Professor Lucy Waruguru from KCA University, Kenya, completes the panel. The conference will showcase diverse career pathways in data science.