Ghana to benefit from zero-rated AI education tools – Haruna Iddrisu

The Minister for Education, Hon. Haruna Iddrisu, has announced that Ghanaian students and teachers will soon gain access to AI-powered educational tools from Google on a zero-rated basis, ensuring equitable access to digital learning resources nationwide.

The announcement follows his engagement with the Vice President of Google at the ongoing Generative AI Summit in the United Kingdom, where discussions centered on improving learning outcomes and promoting digital inclusion across Ghana.

“I received firm assurance from Google that their education tools will be deployed in Ghana on a zero-rated basis,” Minister Iddrisu stated, noting that the resources will include curriculum-aligned content and guidance on the responsible use of AI in teaching and learning. He later confirmed the details on his official Facebook page, providing direct access for the public to follow the updates.

In July 2025, Google pledged US$37 million to support AI research and digital skills development across the continent. The new AI Community Center in Accra is part of this investment, representing a cornerstone of the company’s broader US$1 billion digital transformation initiative in Africa. These measures underscore Ghana’s growing role as a continental hub for AI innovation and education.

Google is working with the University of Ghana and GDI Hub to develop speech recognition and AI tools for local languages, including Twi, Ewe, and Dagbani. These tools focus on non-standard speech patterns to improve accessibility and usability. Minister Iddrisu also highlighted the importance of including Hausa, a widely spoken language across West Africa. “Integrating Hausa will deepen regional inclusion and further strengthen Ghana’s leadership as an AI innovation hub on the continent,” he said.

The zero-rated AI tools will allow learners in all regions to access high-quality, curriculum-aligned educational content without financial or connectivity barriers. The initiative is expected to enhance classroom experiences, particularly in under-resourced areas, and promote equitable AI literacy among students. By removing these barriers, the program seeks to ensure that every learner can participate fully in the digital learning revolution.

Through its partnership with Google, Ghana is leading a new era in educational technology across Africa. By ensuring inclusive, zero-rated access to AI-powered learning, the country is setting a model for the continent and empowering students nationwide to benefit from innovative digital education tools.