Embrace AI to Lead Ghana’s Future – Afenyo-Markin Tells Youth

Member of Parliament for Effutu, Alexander Afenyo-Markin has urged Ghanaian youth to adopt digital technologies and artificial intelligence (AI) as critical instruments for leadership and national progress.

Speaking as the keynote speaker at the Beyond the Degree Conference 2026, Afenyo-Markin described AI as one of the most powerful forces reshaping the contemporary world, affecting industries that include healthcare, agriculture, finance, education and transportation.

He explained that the future of employment and leadership will rely heavily on digital literacy, technological flexibility, creativity and strong problem-solving abilities, encouraging young people to prepare themselves for opportunities in technology-driven entrepreneurship and innovation.

“Across the world, artificial intelligence is changing how companies function, how governments provide services and how knowledge is created and shared. For Ghanaian youth, this shift presents both opportunity and responsibility. Young people must understand that the future of work and leadership will increasingly be shaped by digital technologies, automation and intelligent systems. The skills that will determine success in the coming decades will not only include traditional academic knowledge but also digital literacy, technological adaptability, creativity and problem-solving,” he stated.

While outlining the possibilities AI offers for improving lives and strengthening economies, Afenyo-Markin also emphasized the need for ethical responsibility in the application of emerging technologies.

“Technology must serve humanity. It should not widen inequality or weaken democratic values,” he noted, urging young people to contribute to policies and frameworks that promote the responsible development and use of artificial intelligence.

He further observed that the fast-changing global environment presents both challenges and opportunities for the next generation of leaders.

“The real issue is whether today’s youth will prepare themselves to lead effectively in that changing environment, using knowledge, technology and innovation to strengthen governance, expand opportunity and advance national development,” he said.

The lawmaker concluded that building capable leaders who can navigate and shape a rapidly evolving technological landscape will be vital for Ghana’s future, urging students and graduates to embrace innovation and adapt quickly to emerging realities.