Artificial Intelligence in Ghanaian workplaces: Opportunities, concerns, and the way forward

ACCRA, Ghana – August 4, 2025

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no more a remote concept for organ­isations in Ghana. Recent research has highlighted the significant impact AI is having in remodelling workplaces in Ghana, unveiling a mix of opportunity, anxiety, and a pressing call for coordinated nation­al response. A study focusing on a Ghanaian service organisation in the advertising industry investigated how AI influences employee skills development. The results paint a picture of a technological shift that is rapidly gaining ground in the local workplace, albeit with mixed impli­cations for the workforce.

AI and employee upskilling: A double-edged sword

The study found a statistically sig­nificant, though moderate, positive relationship between AI deployment and employee upskilling. Employees exposed to AI technologies were more likely to enhance their capa­bilities—particularly in areas such as data analysis, digital literacy, and continuous learning. This find­ing aligns with global trends where AI is facilitating learning adaptation and professional growth.

However, the research also pointed out a sobering reality that AI adoption often comes together with workforce downsizing. The data showed a strong correlation between AI implementation and employee redundancies, raising red flags about job security for many Ghanaians.

“While AI can help employees do their jobs more effectively, it also automates tasks that previously required human effort”, the author noted. “This duality—simultane­ously empowering and displacing workers—is at the heart of the AI debate.”

Organisational relevance and the AI imperative

Despite these challenges, organ­isations embracing AI are seeing positive results in terms of rele­vance and competitive advantage. The study confirmed a statistically significant relationship between AI adoption and organisational effec­tiveness, though the influence was not overwhelmingly strong. This suggests that while AI can enhance efficiency, it must be strategically integrated into business models to be fully effective.

Yet, many Ghanaian companies, especially SMEs, remain hesitant. Barriers such as lack of technical infrastructure, fears of losing con­trol to algorithms, and low digital literacy rates hamper widespread adoption. This is echoed in South African and broader African con­texts, where similar patterns of resistance and slow uptake prevail.

Current AI issues in the Ghana­ian workplace

Ghana faces several unique challenges in integrating AI into its workplaces:

Unlike Kenya or Rwanda, Ghana lacks a clear national AI policy or roadmap. This absence of legal frameworks and guidelines hinders sustainable, responsible AI imple­mentation.

The study revealed that while some staff have received training— primarily on Microsoft 365 Copilot— many are limited in their exposure. This creates a lopsided workforce where a few benefit, and many lag behind.

The largest demographic in the study (27.5 per cent) was aged 18–25. Without deliberate interven­tions, this youth cohort faces a high risk of being left behind by AI-driv­en changes.

Employee sentiment toward AI is mixed—13 per cent expressed enthusiasm, while over 20 per cent were wary or pessimistic. This shows the emotional toll and uncer­tainty surrounding AI’s future role in jobs.

The way forward

To harness AI’s benefits while mi­nimising its risks, Ghana must adopt a strategic, inclusive approach:

The government should develop a comprehensive AI framework that supports innovation while protect­ing workers’ rights. Such a policy should include data protection laws, ethical AI guidelines, and incentives for private sector adoption.

Organizations must invest heavily in upskilling and reskilling employ­ees. These programmes should not just focus on technical skills but also foster soft skills such as critical thinking, adaptability, and digital literacy.

Educational institutions should embed AI and digital economy top­ics into basic, secondary, and tertia­ry curricula. Producing AI-literate graduates is key to future-proofing the workforce.

Collaboration between govern­ment, industry, and academia is essential to pool resources, share expertise, and drive AI readiness across sectors.

As AI transforms work, employers must provide psychological support and foster inclusive environments. Change management strategies are essential to guide employees through this transition.

Conclusion

AI is here to stay, and Ghanaian workplaces are beginning to feel its presence. While the promise of enhanced productivity and com­petitiveness is real, so are the threats of job loss and exclusion. The research findings make it clear: the future of work in Ghana must be one where technology and human development evolve togeth­er. Without deliberate, inclusive policies and strategic foresight, the country risks widening inequality and stifling innovation. But with the right investments and political will, Ghana can turn AI from a threat into an engine of inclusive econom­ic growth.

By Esther J.K. Attiogbe (PhD)