The Acting Vice-Chancellor of Accra Technical University (ATU), Professor Amevi Acakpovi, has joined a delegation comprising Vice-Chancellors from some Ghanaian universities, alongside the Chairperson of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) and representatives from Atlantic Holdings, MTN, and jp.ik (Porto), Portugal, for a pivotal summit on educational technology.

The working visit, which was organised by Coral Reef, Portugal, centred on regularising digital technology access, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic, necessitating a significant move towards blended learning models across higher education institutions.

The team had the chance to tour both the jp.ik AI and digital solutions manufacturing plant in Porto, as well as their facility dedicated to assembling computers and laptops.

Anticipated outcomes from this collaboration include the development of a cutting-edge AI-enabled laptop, a substantial portion of which will be assembled in Ghana. These laptops will be accompanied by discounted data packages and pre-loaded with educational content tailored for tertiary students, particularly benefiting ATU students and beyond.

In addition, by partnering with the Student Loan Trust Fund and Absa Bank, the collaboration will ensure that students requiring financial assistance receive the necessary support to procure these laptops, thereby enhancing their learning experience. The collaboration also aims to establish a state-of-the-art AI lab at both ATU and the University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR), with plans for expansion to other tertiary institutions across Ghana. Enhanced training programmes for faculty on digital delivery methods are also in the pipeline, underscoring the commitment to fostering a digitally inclusive educational landscape in the country.

The involvement of the Acting Vice-Chancellor in this summit aligns with ATU’s motto of integrity, creativity, and excellence. The overarching goal is to narrow the digital divide, fortify digital educational infrastructure, enhance delivery quality, and offer students and stakeholders an enriched and sustainable experience in blended learning modalities.