Multi-genre Ghanaian-German writer and author, Mamle Wolo, has advised budding writers to limit their reliance on Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools when starting their writing journey, encouraging them instead to cultivate originality and personal creativity through consistent practice.

Speaking on Channel One TV’s Breakfast Daily on Tuesday, July 15, Mamle Wolo acknowledged the growing influence of AI in creative processes but stressed that the act of writing must begin with individual effort and expression.

According to her, AI should not be used during the formative stages of writing, stressing that it may only be helpful later to refine a writer’s work.

“When you start writing, I would say, do not go to AI first. These days, trying to fight against AI is like fighting against the calculator in the past. If you want to write and you feel a little bit nervous, the most important thing to do is to just sit down and force it out, even if what you have written seems silly or like garbage.

“That act of writing is what makes it start to flow. But if you do not have anything to work with, you cannot continue. You do not use AI in those formative stages, maybe something that could be used to brush it up,” she said.

Her remarks come on the heels of the official launch of the 2025 edition of The Literacy Challenge, a flagship nationwide competition organised by Citi FM in collaboration with Channel One TV.

The initiative is aimed at testing and nurturing the writing, critical thinking, and analytical abilities of Junior High School (JHS) students across the country.

This year’s challenge poses a topical and globally relevant essay prompt: “In not less than 600 words, discuss the effects of Climate Change on Agriculture in Ghana. What challenges do these effects create for individuals, families, communities, and the nation? Suggest practical solutions to help all Ghanaians mitigate these challenges.”

To participate, students must be between the ages of 11 and 15. Essays must be handwritten, endorsed by a parent or guardian, and must include full contact details of the participant. The deadline for submission is Saturday, July 26, 2025.

Entries can be delivered in person to the front desks of Channel One TV or Citi FM, or mailed to P.O. Box GP 14123, Accra Central.

Finalists in the competition will compete for the coveted title of Ghana’s Most Outstanding All-Round JHS Student and a grand cash prize of GH¢10,000, along with a trophy and national recognition.

The Literacy Challenge is powered by Citi FM, supported by Channel One TV, and proudly sponsored by BEL MOOO and GB Investment.

For further enquiries, interested students, parents, and teachers are encouraged to contact 0205 973 973.