‘Find ways to track AI generated contents to promote accountability’

 A professor of Media and Journalism Studies at the University of Tokyo, Japan, Kaori Hayashi, has urged Ghanaian media organ­isations, particularly public broadcasters, to take steps to establish mechanisms that can track AI-generated con­tent, verify information, and promote accountability.

This, she said was be­cause technology holds great promise but its uncritical use especially in the media could undermine public trust and truth.

Drawing from Japan’s ex­perience, she explained that even a country renowned for its digital innovations still faces cultural hesitation and institutional skepticism around AI, particularly within journalism.

Prof. Hayashi made the call at the third Japan Inter­national Cooperation Agency (JICA) Chair public lecture held in Accra last week.

The event, jointly organ­ised by JICA and the Universi­ty of Ghana, brought togeth­er academics, policymakers, and media professionals to explore how Artificial Intelli­gence (AI) can be integrated into society without compro­mising democratic values.

Speaking at the event, Ghana’s journey into the digital age must be rooted in ethical responsibility and informed media practice.

“AI has the potential to reshape how we access and share information, but this must not come at the cost of democracy. We need strong ethical frameworks and independent media bodies to keep AI in check,” she added.

Professor Hayashi called for a careful, values-based approach to AI adoption.

Journalism education also, she added, must evolve to include technological literacy to prepare the next genera­tion of reporters.

The Japan Ambassador to Ghana, Mr Hiroshi Yoshimoto, also addressed the gathering, reaffirming Japan’s com­mitment to strengthening academic and technological cooperation with Ghana.

He applauded the growing ties between the University of Tokyo and the University of Ghana, calling the lecture a step toward deeper bilater­al engagement.

JICA Ghana’s Chief Rep­resentative, Madam Su­zuki Momoko, echoed this sentiment, adding that knowledge-sharing, cultur­al exchange, and academic partnerships would remain key to advancing mutual development goals.

The lecture formed part of the JICA Chair programme, which seeks to share Japan’s modernisation journey with partner countries.

 By Cecilia Yada Lagba