The Minority Leader in Parliament, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has called on the government to reconsider the use of artificial intelligence-based aptitude tests in the ongoing recruitment process for Ghana’s security services.
According to the Effutu Member of Parliament, the current system has created significant challenges for many young applicants, particularly those who lack digital literacy or access to computers and stable internet connections.
Speaking on the floor of Parliament on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, Afenyo-Markin appealed to the government and the relevant ministries to review the recruitment process and make it more accessible.
He acknowledged the importance of technology in modern governance but warned that introducing AI-based testing without adequate preparation could unfairly disadvantage many qualified applicants.
“Mr. Speaker, the military did something good. They created a system where people entered to write the aptitude test directly,” he said, suggesting that the recruitment process should consider returning to a more traditional examination format.
He proposed that candidates should be allowed to write the aptitude test manually, especially those who are not familiar with digital systems.
“If it is possible, the system should be changed to enable our boys and girls who are even not educated on ICT to write it manually so that a proper system is put in place,” Afenyo-Markin stated.
The Minority Leader emphasized that his call should not be interpreted as opposition to technology.
“I am for AI. I am for IT. But you cannot suddenly call somebody who doesn’t know anything about IT and ask them to write an aptitude test via AI,” he explained.
He noted that many Members of Parliament have received complaints from constituents who faced difficulties during the online testing process.
According to him, several applicants have had to visit internet cafés to complete the tests, where they often encounter technical problems and other challenges.
“People go to the café and then they get on the computer and they go through all manner of challenges,” he said, urging authorities to address the issue.
He also disclosed that some young applicants have even approached Members of Parliament for financial assistance to enable them access internet services to complete the tests.
“Our boys, our girls, they come to ask MPs to take money to go on the internet,” he added.
