Ace Anan Ankomah Challenges SOS-HGIC Graduates to Lead Africa's AI Revolution with Ethical Integrity

Ace Anan Ankomah, a prominent lawyer and public intellectual, has called on young Africans to take the lead in the Artificial Intelligence (AI) revolution by anchoring their technological expertise in strong ethical values. Speaking as the keynote speaker at the graduation ceremony of SOS-Hermann Gmeiner International College (SOS-HGIC), Ankomah underscored the transformative potential of AI and the urgent need for a new generation of leaders who prioritize character alongside innovation. He argued that while technology provides the tools for progress, it is the human qualities of wisdom and conscience that must guide its application for the betterment of society.

During his address, Ankomah highlighted that the defining challenge for the current generation will be determining who controls and directs the power of technology. He urged the graduates not to be passive observers of the digital age but to actively shape it. By merging technical proficiency with moral responsibility, he suggested that African youth can ensure that AI serves as a tool for equity and development rather than a source of ethical compromise. This focus on ethical leadership is viewed as crucial for navigating the complex social and economic shifts expected as AI becomes more integrated into daily life.

To inspire the graduating class, Ankomah shared personal reflections on his own academic journey, which was marked by significant hurdles. He spoke candidly about his early academic struggles and the eventual success he found in law school, attributing his achievements to discipline, resilience, and a commitment to continuous learning. These personal anecdotes served as a testament to the idea that professional success is often forged through persistence, and he encouraged the graduates to face future challenges with a steadfast spirit and a hunger for knowledge.

In his concluding remarks, Ankomah emphasized that the future of Africa’s role in the global technological landscape rests on the shoulders of these young leaders. He encouraged them to foster a sense of community and to uphold high ethical standards that would distinguish their contributions on the world stage. By advocating for a balance between cutting-edge innovation and moral integrity, Ankomah’s message served as both a call to action and a roadmap for the next generation of African intellectuals and tech pioneers to lead with purpose and character.