University of Ghana mobilises support for Geo-Artificial Intelligence Centre

The Department of Geography and Resource Development of the University of Ghana has successfully commissioned its GeoInt Lab and launched a fundraising campaign for the establishment of a Geo-Artificial Intelligence (Geo-AI) Centre.

Held under the theme, "Nurturing an Astute Geographer: A Collective Responsibility," the event brought together university management, faculty, students, alumni, government representatives, industry leaders, and development partners to celebrate a major milestone in advancing geographical education, research, and innovation.

The Chairperson for the occasion, Brent Nartey, Chief Executive Officer of MISA Energy Ghana Ltd. and an alumnus of the Department, delivered the opening address.

In his remarks, Nartey highlighted the growing importance of integrating Geography and Artificial Intelligence to address contemporary challenges in environmental management, urban planning, disaster risk reduction, and sustainable development.

He emphasized that developing highly skilled geographers capable of addressing complex societal problems requires collaboration among academia, government, industry, civil society, and local communities.

Professor Charlotte Wrigley-Asante, faculty member and former Head of the Department, outlined the vision and purpose of the Geo-Artificial Intelligence Centre. She described the Centre as a strategic investment in the future of geospatial science and innovation, providing opportunities for advanced research, practical training, and evidence-based policy support.

She further appealed to stakeholders to support the initiative, emphasizing that the Centre would contribute significantly to national development through geospatial intelligence applications in land administration, infrastructure planning, climate adaptation, flood risk management, and environmental sustainability.

The incoming Pro Vice-Chancellor for Research, Innovation and Development at the University of Ghana, Prof. Samuel Nii Ardey Codjoe, commended the organizing committee for a successful event and expressed appreciation to donors and supporters who have demonstrated confidence in the Department's vision.

He also recognized faculty and staff members for their dedication to student development and encouraged students to embrace the opportunities presented by the new facility.

Prof. Codjoe subsequently declared the Geo-Artificial Intelligence Centre officially launched and reaffirmed the University's commitment to fostering innovation, excellence, and practical learning.

A major highlight of the programme was the unveiling of the proposed Geo-Artificial Intelligence Centre building plan by Brent Nartey and Godwin Edudzi Tameklo, Chief Executive Officer of the National Petroleum Authority.

The unveiling ceremony was witnessed by university officials, faculty, students, alumni, and invited guests. Following the unveiling, Professor Barimah Owusu, Head of the Department of Geography and Resources Development, presented an overview of the building design and explained how the proposed facility would support teaching, research, innovation, stakeholder engagement, and professional development within the geospatial sciences.

The event culminated in the commissioning, unveiling, and inspection of the new GeoInt Lab by Nana Opare Kwafo I, Kyedomhene of Aburi Atwiasin and CEO of Jilcon Construction and Petroleum Company–Ghana, and Philip Korletey, a real estate developer and CEO of Quality Properties Real Estate Developers.

This significant milestone represented a major achievement for the Department of Geography and Resource Development, reflecting the successful collaboration between the University, its distinguished alumni, and industry partners.

While the commissioning of the GeoInt Lab marks a significant milestone, it also signals the beginning of a more ambitious journey toward establishing a world-class Geo-Artificial Intelligence Centre.

The commissioning of the GeoInt Lab and the launch of the fundraising initiative represent important steps in strengthening the University of Ghana's capacity to provide cutting-edge geospatial education and research. The programme reinforced the importance of partnerships and collective responsibility in nurturing future-ready geographers equipped to contribute meaningfully to national and global development.

The event concluded with a renewed commitment from stakeholders to support the establishment of the Geo-Artificial Intelligence Centre and advance the Department's vision of becoming a leading hub for geospatial intelligence, innovation, and research in Africa.