The Department of Computer Science at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi, has launched a comprehensive training programme in Artificial Intelligence (AI), Robotics and other emerging technologies aimed at building practical skills among National Service Personnel and staff.

The training is being conducted in collaboration with the Technology Consultancy Centre (TCC-KNUST) and GuruKewl Inc., an international technology education organisation with expertise in AI, robotics, and embedded systems training.

The initiative forms part of the department’s preparations to roll out a new Artificial Intelligence Learning Module in the next academic year and to strengthen its role as a centre for advanced technology education under the College of Science.

The programme also seeks to bridge the gap between academic training and industry needs through practical modules, modern training kits, and internationally aligned certification pathways.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Head of the Department of Computer Science, Prof. Michael Asante, said the programme aligns with both national development priorities and the department’s academic direction.

He explained that the focus is on equipping educators and trainees with hands-on, industry-relevant skills.

“We strive to equip educators with foundational and applied AI skills, enabling them to deliver project-based AI content across various disciplines confidently,” he said, adding that the department’s broader goal is to ensure students are “not just consumers of technology but creators and innovators.”

Prof. Asante described the programme as critical to the success of the planned AI curriculum and underscored the value of its certification component.

“This training and its associated certification are more than capacity-building exercises. They are essential pillars for the successful launch of our new AI Learning Module,” he noted.

Project Coordinator, Dr. Oliver Kornyo, said the training builds on a formal partnership between the Department of Computer Science and GuruKewl Inc., Canada.

“The Department already has a Memorandum of Understanding with GuruKewl Inc., Canada, which serves as the central hub for training in Artificial Intelligence (AI), Robotics, and Embedded Systems in Ghana and across Africa,” he said.

Dr. Kornyo also stressed that the programme is designed to have a lasting impact beyond the immediate training.

“Today, we are not just training participants; we are laying the groundwork for a new ecosystem of AI, Robotics, IoT, and Drone Technology education that will shape the next generation of Ghanaian innovators,” he said.