Department of ICT Education Explores Complex Landscape of Artificial Intelligence and Future Prospects
The Department of ICT Education at the University of Education, Winneba (UEW), recently hosted a thought-provoking seminar on the growing influence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) across various sectors.
Titled "The Evolution of Artificial Intelligence in Different Fields: Present and Future Opportunities," the event explored the current applications and prospects of AI, raising crucial questions about its impact on society.
The seminar, held at the North Campus Mini-Conference Room, drew a diverse array of participants, including professionals, computer science academics, and IT specialists. Speakers shed light on the multifaceted nature of AI, tackling its benefits, challenges, and ethical considerations.
In his keynote address, Prof. Victus Samlafo, Dean of the Faculty of Science Education at UEW, underscored the dual nature of AI's influence. While acknowledging its potential to streamline processes, enhance efficiency, and mitigate risks, Prof. Samlafo also expressed concerns about its potential to disrupt traditional employment models, leading to widespread job displacement.
"AI presents a paradoxical scenario," Prof. Samlafo remarked. "While it offers unparalleled convenience and utility, it also threatens to erode the foundation of human creativity and innovation."
Dr. Delali Kwasi Dake, Head of the Department of ICT Education, highlighted the imperative of staying abreast of AI advancements, citing the Department's commitment to fostering dialogue and collaboration in adopting emerging technologies.
Throughout the seminar, experts provided comprehensive insights into AI's applications across diverse sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, transportation, finance, education, and research.
Prof. Benjamin Ghansah elucidated the historical context of AI, and its various applications, and dispelled common misconceptions surrounding the technology. "Understanding the nuances of AI is crucial in navigating its impact on society," Prof. Ghansah emphasised. "By debunking myths and fostering informed discourse, we can harness AI's potential for collective benefit."
Dr. Ben-Bright Benuwa and Prof. Issifu Yidana probed into AI's transformative potential in sectors critical to socioeconomic development, highlighting its role in driving innovation, enhancing productivity, and improving service delivery.
However, amidst the optimism surrounding AI's capabilities, Dr. Delali Kwasi Dake cautioned against overlooking the ethical and societal implications of widespread adoption. He underscored the need for responsible AI deployment, emphasising considerations such as privacy, security, and inclusivity.
"As AI continues to permeate our daily lives, we must remain vigilant in safeguarding against unintended consequences," Dr. Dake asserted. "By proactively addressing emerging challenges, we can ensure that AI serves as a force for positive change."
The seminar concluded with a call to action for stakeholders to collaboratively navigate the evolving landscape of AI, balancing innovation with socioeconomic impact. As society grapples with the implications of AI's ascent, forums like these serve as crucial platforms for informed dialogue and collective decision-making.
