Ghanaian Member of Parliament, Kwame A Plus, has urged citizens to acquire skills in artificial intelligence (AI) to remain relevant in the rapidly evolving job market. He warned that those who refuse to learn how to use emerging technology risk being left behind. A Plus used various examples from Ghana's music industry, automobile technology, and his own experience with AI to emphasize the importance of adapting to new tools.
The MP cited the music industry, where some producers initially dismissed the use of electronic instruments in music production, labeling it as "computer music." However, those who embraced technology, such as Zapp Mallet, Zola, and Fredema, were able to combine live instruments with electronic production, increasing efficiency and reducing costs. A Plus noted that some of the songs initially dismissed as computer music have since become classics, while studios that failed to adapt eventually became obsolete.
A Plus also drew parallels with the introduction of automatic vehicles in Ghana, where motorists initially dismissed them before many eventually adopted the technology. He urged mechanics to start learning about electric vehicles, warning that those who fail to prepare for the transition could lose customers to competitors who adapt to the new technology.
The MP disclosed that he uses AI to create graphics, websites, and promotional materials for his projects, such as Gomoa Eco Park, the Gomoa Easter Festival, and the Gomoa Special Economic Zone, despite having no formal training in graphic or web design. He also teaches friends who studied graphic design at university how to use AI tools to complete tasks more efficiently.
However, A Plus cautioned that using AI effectively requires knowledge and the ability to give clear instructions. He emphasized that AI is no excuse for ignorance and that quality output requires clear, informed prompts. A Plus stressed that understanding concepts such as aspect ratios, composition, and resolution is crucial for producing high-quality work.
The MP emphasized that artificial intelligence does not replace formal education but rather enhances professional knowledge and experience when applied alongside new technology. He encouraged Ghanaians to develop their AI skills rather than dismiss the technology, citing the example of people relying on calculators to illustrate how technology can make tasks easier.
A Plus ended with a warning to those unwilling to adapt, joking that they should abandon their cars and ride horses to Kumasi instead. He also revealed that he had used ChatGPT to proofread and edit his post, highlighting the benefits of leveraging technology to streamline tasks and increase productivity.
Key points
- The MP encourages Ghanaians to develop AI skills to stay relevant in evolving industries.
- A Plus uses AI for his projects, despite lacking formal training in graphic or web design.
- He cautions that using AI effectively requires knowledge and clear instructions.
