Prof. Jerry John Kponyo, the Principal Investigator and Scientific Director of the Responsible AI Lab (RAIL), has been inaugurated as a member of the International Telecommunication Union’s (ITU) newly formed Academic Advisory Body on Emerging Technologies.
This prestigious 26-member group, convened by the United Nations specialized agency for information and communication technologies, brings together leading academic minds from across the globe. Their mission is to provide expert insights and forward-looking analyses on global technology trends, examining how innovations like artificial intelligence can best serve society.
The appointment recognizes Prof. Kponyo’s significant expertise, contributions, and impact in the field of emerging technologies, particularly in the African context. As the Dean of Quality Assurance & Planning at KNUST and the head of RAIL, his work is at the forefront of developing ethical and sustainable AI solutions tailored to local and global challenges.
The Advisory Body is tasked with producing informative policy briefs and analyses to enhance ITU’s strategic foresight. By combining diverse regional perspectives with a multidisciplinary approach, the group aims to ensure that global innovation is inclusive, responsible, and aligned with the needs of all societies.
Prof. Kponyo’s role on this international stage is a testament to RAIL’s growing influence and its commitment to shaping the future of responsible technology. His participation ensures that critical perspectives on equitable AI development, digital inclusion, and sustainable innovation from Ghana and the wider Global South are represented at the highest levels of global policy-making.
“This is a remarkable opportunity to contribute to global conversations on technology governance. It allows us to share the important work we are doing at RAIL in promoting responsible AI and to ensure that the unique challenges and opportunities we see in this region are part of the international discourse.” said Prof. Kponyo. The members of the Advisory Body, all affiliated with leading universities and research institutes, will serve an initial two-year term. Their expertise spans AI, quantum technologies, space sciences, policy, and law.