Sam George cautions ministers against reading unverified AI-generated speeches

Sam George, the Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, has warned government ministers against presenting speeches generated by artificial intelligence (AI) without proper verification. George expressed his concern during an AI retreat for Cabinet ministers, emphasizing that some directors are already using AI to prepare speeches for ministers.

He cautioned that relying on AI-generated content could lead to the dissemination of inaccurate or unverified information, especially when adequate background research and fact-checking are neglected. George explained that AI tools may pull information from both verified and unverified sources, making it difficult to discern which details are accurate.

Despite AI's ability to expedite document preparation, George stressed that the system cannot distinguish between verified and unverified information. This raised questions about how government ministries and public institutions are integrating AI into their daily operations, particularly in creating official communications. Regarding the impact of AI on journalism, George highlighted the need for media professionals to acquire new skills to differentiate accurate information from potentially misleading AI-generated content.

He argued that journalism training institutions should adapt their curricula to prepare students for a media landscape where AI could increasingly handle tasks traditionally performed by reporters and editors. George questioned whether academic institutions, such as the Ghana Institute of Journalism (GIJ), were equipping students with the necessary skills to verify, edit, and critically assess AI-generated material before publication or broadcast.

He emphasized the importance of journalists being able to fact-check AI-generated content before it reaches the newsroom, as otherwise, inaccurate information could be presented to the public.