For many children growing up in rural communities, access to emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), robotics and coding remains limited. While technology continues to transform education, employment and everyday life, the opportunities to explore and understand these innovations are not equally accessible to every child.
Recognizing this gap, the Otumfuo Osei Tutu II Foundation, in partnership with Newmont Africa and other supporting partners, is taking deliberate steps to bring technology education closer to young people through its AI for Youth Laboratories Initiative.
Over the past three years, the Foundation has steadily expanded the initiative, establishing various Artificial Intelligence Laboratories across the Ashanti and Ahafo Regions. The journey began with the commissioning of laboratories at Wioso and Kona in 2024, followed by Toase and, most recently, Sankore.
Each laboratory is designed to serve as a technology learning hub for pupils and teachers within its host school and neighbouring communities. Beyond providing access to computers and digital learning resources, the facilities create opportunities for students to gain practical exposure to artificial intelligence, coding, robotics and other emerging technologies.
The initiative goes beyond introducing children to computers. It seeks to nurture curiosity, creativity, critical thinking and problem-solving abilities while equipping young learners with skills that will prepare them for an increasingly digital world. By extending these opportunities to underserved communities, the Foundation is helping to ensure that a child's geographical location does not limit their ability to learn, innovate and compete.
Plans are underway to commission two additional laboratories at Ntotroso and Yamfo in the Ahafo Region in the final quarter of 2026, bringing the total number of AI laboratories established under the initiative to six.
This continued expansion reflects the Foundation's commitment to inclusive education and its belief that rural children deserve the same opportunities to explore, understand and benefit from technological advancements as their counterparts in urban communities.
Through its collaboration with Newmont Africa and other partners, the Otumfuo Osei Tutu II Foundation is not simply providing technology infrastructure; it is investing in the potential of young people, opening doors to new possibilities and helping to prepare a generation of digitally empowered thinkers and innovators.