Collins Sefa US Tech Entrepreneur Urges Ghanaian Youth to Harness AI for Innovation and Economic Growth
A leading US-based tech entrepreneur, Ebako Mukwele, has challenged students and professionals in Ghana to embrace artificial intelligence (AI) not as a threat, but as a powerful tool for innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic development.
Delivering the keynote address at the Futuristic Africa Youth and Technology Symposium (FAYATS) held at the University of Media, Arts and Communication – Institute of Journalism (UniMAC-IJ), Mr. Mukwele, CEO of MKNet Consulting LLC and EMATECH Academy Inc., USA, emphasized that AI is designed to augment human capabilities, not replace them.
“Humans create AI. So AI is not here to replace us. You still have to have control over it,” he told the audience.
Held at UniMAC’s South Legon Campus, the symposium brought together students, academics, media professionals, and tech entrepreneurs, all focused on preparing Africa’s next generation to lead in a digital-first world.
Empowering Youth Through Technology and Skill Development
Mr. Mukwele encouraged students to take charge of their digital futures by building the skills, mindset, and innovation culture necessary to thrive in the AI-powered era.
As the founder of an academy offering online certifications in IT, he shared insights into how Africa’s youth can become job creators, not just job seekers, by leveraging tools like AI for business, media, governance, agriculture, and education.
“Africa’s future depends on how its youth rise to meet the challenges of a rapidly evolving tech landscape,” Mukwele stressed.
Bridging Global Collaboration for Local Impact
The event also focused on the power of global collaboration in education and innovation. The Rector of UniMAC-IJ, Professor Christiana Hammond, emphasized the importance of creating international partnerships that benefit students and open doors to global opportunities.
“This symposium is about fostering collaboration in teaching, learning, and research—and building real-world bridges for our students,” Prof. Hammond said.
She further revealed ongoing discussions between UniMAC and the Centre for Global Education and Collaborations aimed at enhancing student exchange and retention programmes beyond Ghana’s borders.
Tech and Entrepreneurship
Dean of the Faculty of Journalism and Media Studies, Prof. Etse Sikanku, reiterated the value of tech literacy in today’s entrepreneurial landscape.
“Technology is transforming how we live, work, and create value. It is no longer optional. It’s a necessity,” he noted.
Students at the symposium engaged deeply with the content, asking insightful questions and brainstorming how tech innovations could be applied to solve local and continental challenges.
From media transformation to digital agriculture and governance, the event underscored the potential of Africa’s youth to lead the next wave of entrepreneurial growth—powered by AI, digital tools, and a solutions-driven mindset.
