MTN Ghana Conducts AI and Data Security Training for Journalists and Civil Society Organizations
Empowering Media and Civil Society with AI Literacy and Data Privacy Best Practices
- MTN Ghana trained journalists and CSOs on AI and data security.
- Emphasized privacy, ethical use, and human oversight of AI.
- Provided practical skills in using AI tools like ChatGPT.
Ghana, August 24, 2026 — MTN Ghana hosted a comprehensive training session designed to equip journalists and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) with essential skills in artificial intelligence (AI) and data security.
The event aimed to help participants understand the opportunities, risks, and best practices associated with AI technology in their work.
Led by industry experts including Samuel Adranyi, CEO of Afrilogic Solutions; Kwame Manu, Senior Manager of Digital Analytics and Monetisation; and Nehemia Yelu Affigah, CEO of HatuaTech, the workshop offered practical insights into how AI can be utilized for research, advocacy, and reporting while upholding professional ethics.
Key Focus Areas Covered in the Training:
Data Strategy:Facilitators emphasized a cautious approach to AI tools, advocating the “zero-trust” principle: “Never input confidential information into an AI platform.” Organizations dealing with sensitive data were advised to opt for enterprise paid versions of AI tools to ensure better privacy and security controls.
Understanding AI Mechanics:Participants learned that AI systems primarily function as pattern-based prediction engines. Since these models generate outputs based on training data, continuous evaluation is necessary to verify accuracy. The session also addressed the potential for AI to produce convincing but false information, known as “hallucinations,” highlighting the importance of independent fact-checking before publishing or policy-making.
Ethical Considerations:While AI can accelerate research and content creation, facilitators cautioned that speed should never compromise journalistic integrity, critical thinking, or human oversight. Ethical use of AI remains paramount.
Practical Applications:Attendees engaged in hands-on activities using AI tools like ChatGPT, learning how to craft effective prompts, conduct complex research, and streamline analytical tasks. The training reinforced that AI is a tool to augment human expertise, not replace critical judgment, ethical standards, or rigorous verification processes.
The overarching message was clear: AI offers significant potential to enhance journalism and civil society work, but responsible use, privacy protection, and human oversight are essential to harness its full benefits.
