Ghana security recruitment: AI aptitude test excludes applicants
Ghana's 2026 recruitment for security services used an AI-based online aptitude test that reportedly excluded applicants with limited digital literacy and those in rural areas. Technical glitches, network challenges, and tight time limits (60 questions in 40 minutes) disadvantaged candidates, particularly those unable to afford stable internet access.
What happened
An AI-based online aptitude test was used in 2026 recruitment for Ghana's security services, including the Police Service, Fire Service, Prisons Service, and Immigration Service. The test required applicants to complete 60 questions within 40 minutes.
Applicants, particularly from rural communities, faced significant difficulties with the system. Candidates reported technical glitches, network challenges, and slow system performance due to heavy traffic. Some candidates whose results were pending beyond the announced March 9, 2026 release date were disqualified when they checked on March 10.
Reported impact
Applicants with limited digital literacy skills were excluded from the process. Members of Parliament reported receiving numerous complaints from constituents disqualified due to technical difficulties. Candidates from remote areas and rural communities like Pusiga and Bunkpurugu faced considerable difficulties navigating the online platform.
Many applicants were compelled to spend money at internet cafés to complete the tests, only to encounter technical obstacles that prevented them from progressing. The system created barriers for applicants without adequate IT resources or knowledge.
Index analysis
The aptitude test system had unequal impact on applicants from rural and remote areas who lacked reliable internet access and digital literacy skills. Applicants without ICT education faced systematic disadvantage in completing the online test within the time constraint.
Governance controls
The Ministry of the Interior defended the AI-based online system as intended to reduce human interference and corruption in recruitment. However, Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin called for a review of the system and the Majority Chief Whip Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor echoed concerns, with both urging the government to make the recruitment process more inclusive.
Classification
Sources and evidence
This record was researched and written by the Index, based on the following original reporting.