Prof. Winston Wole Soboyejo, President of the State University of New York Polytechnic Institute (SUNY) in the USA, has stressed the importance of African nations more effectively utilizing the continent’s vast energy resources. During a public lecture hosted by the College of Engineering at KNUST, Prof. Soboyejo emphasized the immense but largely untapped energy potential across Africa.
“A single drop of water from the Congo River contains enough energy to satisfy one-third of the continent’s energy requirements. Similarly, the solar capacity of the Sahara Desert could provide another third, yet none of this is being utilized,” he explained.
In addition to hydropower and solar energy, he pointed out Africa’s abundant natural resources, including uranium, oil, gas, and coal.
“The Gulf of Guinea alone holds 10% of the world’s oil and gas reserves, South Africa has extensive coal deposits, and the entire continent has vast solar energy potential. Africa does not have an energy crisis; it faces a challenge in recognizing its energy resources and developing strategies to harness them,” he said. Prof. Soboyejo called for a new generation of thinkers to create sustainable plans for the effective use of these resources, ensuring long-term benefits.
The lecture, titled “Next Frontiers for Artificial Intelligence: From Health to Renewable Energy and Sustainable Alloy Design/Recycling,” examined the transformative role AI can play in multiple sectors. He highlighted AI’s impact on healthcare, specifically its use in detecting and treating breast cancer. He also discussed innovations in solar technology, noting that perovskite solar cells, enhanced through AI and contact mechanics, offer a cost-effective alternative to traditional silicon-based cells.
Prof. Soboyejo emphasized the need for collaboration and the adoption of innovative technologies such as AI, the Internet of Things (IoT), and the Internet of Services (IoS). “Consider the potential of robotics in logistics, AI and machine learning in construction, and the transformation of agriculture in Africa,” he urged the audience.
KNUST’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor (Mrs.) Rita Akosua Dickson, who chaired the lecture, highlighted the importance of embracing AI and the opportunities it offers. “Artificial Intelligence is here to stay. The sooner we accept and create an environment that nurtures its potential, while addressing challenges like ethical concerns, the better,” she stated.
She also emphasized KNUST’s commitment to promoting responsible AI through the Responsible Artificial Intelligence Laboratory (RAIL). “AI isn’t just about advanced algorithms or machine learning; it involves collaboration among people, researchers, engineers, policymakers, and innovators working together to turn ideas into reality and tackle critical challenges,” she concluded. The event also provided a platform for students from Senior and Junior High Schools to engage in discussions on AI and Machine Learning, offering valuable insights for the younger generation.
