By Frank Kwame Abbor
Ho, June 25, GNA – Professor Ben Q. Honyenuga, Vice-Chancellor of Ho Technical University, has called on academia to play a leading role in driving Ghana’s digital transformation through data-driven research, innovation, skilled human capital development and evidence-based policymaking.
Speaking at the Ghana Data Science Summit (GDSS) 2026, held at the G.M. Afeti Auditorium in Ho on June 24, Prof Honyenuga said the emergence of data as one of the world’s most valuable assets had transformed sectors including healthcare, agriculture, finance, education, manufacturing, transportation and governance, making data central to national development and economic competitiveness.
He noted that Ghana’s transition to a data-driven economy was no longer optional but a necessity, stressing that countries that effectively collect, analyse and utilise data are better positioned to improve service delivery, increase productivity and address complex societal challenges through innovation.
The Vice-Chancellor said universities and research institutions remained critical engines of knowledge creation and innovation and must equip students with relevant competencies in data science, artificial intelligence, machine learning, cybersecurity and analytical problem-solving to meet the growing global demand for digital skills.
Prof Honyenuga announced that Ho Technical University had introduced a Master of Science programme in Statistics and Data Science to strengthen the country’s capacity in advanced data analytics and contribute to developing a highly skilled workforce capable of supporting Ghana’s digital economy agenda.
He stressed that academia’s role extends beyond teaching and research to societal impact, innovation and civic engagement, adding that institutions of higher learning must use data and scientific evidence to confront misinformation, harmful beliefs and speculation that hinder national growth and development.
According to him, research findings should not remain confined to academic journals but must be translated into practical solutions that address national challenges in areas such as agriculture, climate change, healthcare delivery and urban planning.
Prof Honyenuga also called for stronger collaboration among academia, government and industry, noting that effective policymaking depends on reliable data and empirical evidence rather than assumptions.
He said such partnerships would facilitate knowledge transfer, practical training opportunities and applied research that responds to real-world needs.
On the ethical use of emerging technologies, he urged educational institutions to prioritise privacy, security, fairness and accountability in training future professionals, emphasising that responsible data governance was essential to sustaining public confidence in artificial intelligence and digital systems.
The Vice-Chancellor reaffirmed Ho Technical University’s commitment to advancing digital transformation through investment in research capacity, digital infrastructure, interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation-driven education.
He encouraged participants at the summit to translate discussions into actionable partnerships, policy recommendations and practical solutions capable of accelerating Ghana’s journey towards a data-driven economy.
GNA
Edited by Maxwell Awumah /Audrey Dekalu