The Legon Centre for Education Research and Policy (LECERP), under the College of Education, joined the global community in marking International Literacy Day 2025 with pupils of the Madina Demonstration Basic and Special Unit School.
The celebration, held under UNESCO’s global theme “Promoting Literacy in the Digital Era,” was locally adapted by LECERP as “Digital Superheroes: Using AI Responsibly.” The event engaged learners, teachers and stakeholders in exploring how technology, particularly Artificial Intelligence (AI), can be harnessed as a tool for learning while being used safely and responsibly.
Dr. Innocent Agbelie, Research Fellow, delivering remarks on behalf of the Director, LECERP
In a speech delivered on his behalf, Director of LECERP, Dr. Clement Adamba, traced the history of International Literacy Day and stressed its relevance in the digital age. “Technology, especially AI, is like a superhero gadget in your hands. It can help you learn, solve problems and connect with others. But just like every superhero, your real strength lies in how responsibly you use it, to be smart, safe and kind in the digital world,” the remarks stated.
A pupil contributing to the discussion with a question
Dr. Adamba further explained how AI is reshaping education and invited pupils to embrace the tools available while exercising caution and responsibility.
Ms. Harriet Lomotey, Director of Education, La Nkwantanang, Madina Municipality
In her opening remarks, Ms. Harriet Lomotey, Director of Education for the La Nkwantanang Madina Municipality, praised the initiative as a timely push to empower learners. She noted that acquiring digital skills is essential for preparing young people to thrive in today’s knowledge-driven world. She emphasised that the Municipal Assembly is committed to supporting literacy programmes and creating opportunities that nurture well-rounded, future-ready students.
Ms. Lomotey praised LECERP’s dedication to promoting evidence-based approaches to education and encouraged learners to expand their knowledge and skills.
Dr. Martin Wiredu Agyekum, Research Fellow at LECERP, interacting with the students about AI
Dr. Martin Wiredu Agyekum, Research Fellow at LECERP, led a session on “Using Artificial Intelligence (AI) Responsibly: Nurturing Digital Superheroes.” He highlighted both the opportunities and risks of AI, cautioning pupils to apply technology to support their studies while avoiding misuse.
Pupils engaged in a hands-on exercise exploring the power of AI
Additional remarks were delivered by Dr. Freda Osei Sefa, Research Fellow at LECERP, Mr. Julius Caesar Abutiate, School Improvement Support Officer, Madina Circuit, La Nkwantanang Madina Education Directorate and Mr. Richard Galah, Head Teacher of the Madina Demonstration and Special Unit Basic School. They underscored the importance of literacy in driving personal growth and national development and charged the pupils to be disciplined and intentional in their learning.
Pupils engaged in a hands-on exercise exploring the power of AI
The event featured lively interactive sessions where pupils reflected on literacy, shared their aspirations and participated in discussions linking digital literacy to everyday learning. They practised using AI tools such as Copilot and ChatGPT to aid their studies. They learnt how to fact-check generated content and were introduced to how generative AI systems learn from humans, underscoring the need for responsible use.
The celebration reaffirmed LECERP’s mission of empowering educators, policymakers and learners by delivering research and advocacy that address educational challenges in Ghana and beyond. It also underscored the Centre’s commitment to ensuring that no child is left behind in an increasingly digital world.