Ho Technical University (HTU) and the Vanuatu Trade Commission have entered into a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on Artificial Intelligence (AI) training, research, and investment initiatives.
The agreement, signed on Thursday, September 11,2024 aims to train about three thousand faculty, staff and students in AI and establish HTU as a hub for sustainable digital innovation, with funding support from the Vanuatu Trade Commission and its partner, the African Diaspora Central Bank (ADCB) of the Eco-6 Region.
H.E. Amb. Prof. Hugh K. Aryee, Trade Commissioner of the Vanuatu Trade Commission, and Prof. Ben Honyenuga, Vice-Chancellor of HTU, signed the pact in the presence of HTU Management and Vanuatu officials, including Dr. David King Boison, Consultant, and Ms. Ewoenam Nyamadi, Executive Secretary of the Commission.
“This partnership is a game-changer for Ghana and Africa,” said Ambassador Aryee. “We are excited to work with HTU to advance the AI revolution and create opportunities for African youth.” He noted that Vanuatu, a Pacific island nation, is investing heavily in Ghana’s education sector, focusing on technical and vocational training institutions. The partnership forms part of the AI Africa Training Project, which seeks to train five million young people in AI.
Dr. Boison, Consultant with the Commission, delivered a presentation on the evolution of AI and the Vanuatu Trade Commission’s collaboration with ADCB to facilitate AI integration across the continent and also promote the strategic adoption and interoperability of the AKL Lumi currency.
As part of the agreement, the Commission will also facilitate $10 million in funding through ADCB to support the University’s research and innovation endevours.
The Vice-Chancellor expressed gratitude for the partnership, saying, “We are committed to collaborating with stakeholders like you to advance training and innovation. This partnership will enble us to stay ahead of the curve in digitalization and AI.” He assured the delegation of the University’s commitment to ensuring the full implementation of the MoU.
Background
Vanuatu is a Pacific island nation northeast of Australia, comprising 80 islands with a total land area of 12,189 sq km. The capital, Port Vila, is on the island of Efate. Vanuatu boasts stunning natural beauty, including beaches, coral reefs, and tropical forests, as well as active volcanoes like Mount Yasur. The country has a rich cultural heritage, with Melanesian, French, and British influences, and a population of around 240,000. The Vanuatu Trade Commission in Ghana aims to promote trade and investment between Vanuatu and Ghana, as well as other West African countries.