Google, and UG collaborate to develop speech recognition for Ghanaian languages

For Ghanaian language preservation and digital inclusion, Google Research Africa, in partnership with the University of Ghana (UG), University College of London’s (UCL) Global Disability Innovation has launched a project to develop speech recognition technology for indigenous Ghanaian languages.

The initiative, named Tekyerema Pa, aims to enhance communications for individuals with non-standard speech patterns due to conditions such us Down Syndrome, Stroke, Cerebral Palsy, and Parkinson’s Diseases.

 

The project, Tekyerema Pa focuses on creating a robust language database for popular Ghanaian languages such as Asante (twi), Ewe, Dagaare and Dagbani. Speech recognition technology enables computers and devices to understand and process spoken language, paving the way for applications in translation for people in speech impairment, making it easy to communicate through digital tools accessible to Ghanaians in local languages.

 

Speaking to the media on Friday, Professor Isaac Wiafe, project leader and associate professor at University explained the progress of the project. In his address, he stated that Tekyerema Pa is a training AI model which will better the understanding of unique pattern in our local languages.

“By developing localized AI Solution, we can assure that more Ghanaians will have the opportunity to communicate effectively, regarded of their speech pattern”

 

The project’s development team is using a combination of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning algorithms to analyze phonetic patterns and regional dialects, ensuring that the technology recognizes and accurately interprets the unique characteristics of each language. They are also crowdsourcing voice data from native speakers to build a comprehensive database, helping the model understand variations in pronunciation and vocabulary.

Google representatives, Ms. Katrin Tomanek, a Senior Research Scientist at Google Search emphasized that the Tekyerema Pa project builds on continuous research aimed at making Automatic Speech Recognition (ASR) more accessible.

The project has already made strides in producing beta versions of the technology, which will soon be made available for public testing. Once finalized, this tool could have significant implications for Ghana healthcare, and government sectors, offering a digital solution for sectors that rely heavily on clear communication in local languages.

 

Tekyerema Pa is supported by a $40,000 grant from Google, with research expertise provide through AT2030 program, an assistive technology initiative from the UCL’s GDI Hub.

 

Amnewsagency | Reporters | Accra.