Flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, has called for legislation to protect workers from potential job losses arising from the growing use of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
During an engagement with the Trades Union Congress (TUC), which focused on labour issues, economic transformation and the future of work, Dr Bawumia revealed that although AI offered opportunities to improve productivity, efficiency and service delivery, its rapid advancement could threaten employment and workers’ income security.
“Machines and software applications are increasingly capable of performing tasks traditionally undertaken by humans, and businesses worldwide are adopting automation to reduce operational expenses and improve productivity, making several occupations vulnerable to technological disruption.”
Further, Dr Bawumia added that Ghana needed to take proactive measures to address the implications of AI on the labour market rather than remain a passive observer as the technology transformed industries.
“There is a need for a national strategy to ensure that the adoption of AI promotes economic growth without undermining workers’ livelihoods.” “Artificial Intelligence should be a tool to complement human labour and not a substitute for it,” he said.
Moreover, Dr Bawumia proposed collaboration among the government, organised labour, employers and technology experts to develop laws and regulations that would protect workers.
“The proposed laws and regulations should include provisions for retraining, reskilling, and continuous education to equip workers with the skills needed to remain relevant in an increasingly digital economy.”
