By Grace Zigah
Former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia is exploring Japan’s application of artificial intelligence (AI), deep learning and satellite technology to address practical development challenges as part of his ongoing study tour of the Asian country.
During the visit, Dr. Bawumia toured the renowned Matsuo-Iwasawa Laboratory at the University of Tokyo, where he was introduced to research in deep learning and generative AI and their applications in healthcare, education, manufacturing and agriculture.
The laboratory’s work formed part of his engagements to understand how advanced research can be translated into practical solutions to improve public services, productivity and economic development.
He also held discussions with Japanese space technology institutions and companies, including Axelspace, Hanibashi and Cross U, focusing on the use of satellite data and space-based technologies to tackle challenges such as flooding, deforestation, drought stress and crop monitoring.
The engagements highlighted how satellite information can support early warning systems, environmental protection, agricultural planning and disaster management.
Dr. Bawumia said he was particularly impressed by the close collaboration among universities, private-sector companies and government institutions in Japan, describing the relationship as an important feature of the country’s approach to technological innovation.
The study tour provides an opportunity to examine how Ghana could draw lessons from Japan’s research and technology ecosystem, particularly in applying AI and satellite data to sectors that directly affect livelihoods and national development.
The potential benefits for Ghana include improved agricultural monitoring, more effective responses to climate-related disasters, better environmental management and the use of AI to strengthen services in education, healthcare and industry.
