The Minister for Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations (MoCDTI), Samuel Nartey George has described the improvement of Ghana’s digital future taking shape as the Girls In ICT 2025 Program graduates new generation of tech leaders in the country.
The honourable minister indicated this during the closing ceremony of this years National Girls in ICT program which was held in Ho, in the Volta Region.
The National Girls in ICT program is an initiative that aims to equip young girls with digital skills, promoting quality education, gender equality, and reduced inequalities in the ICT landscape.
In his keynote address, he encouraged the young girls to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) to assist them gain the opportunity to explore the vast possibilities in the ICT sector and connect with industry professionals.
Hon. Samuel Nartey George further noted that, as the world becomes increasingly dependent on technology, it is essential that young girls are empowered to take their rightful place in the ICT sector.
According to him, the theme for this year’s celebration, “Empowering Girls in ICT: Breaking Down Barriers,”S highlights the importance of creating a supportive environment that allows girls to thrive in the tech industry. ‘‘By celebrating the achievements of girls in ICT and providing them with the support and resources they need to succeed, we can create a brighter future for generations to come,” he added.
“In recent statistics, women remain underrepresented in STEM fields, making up only a small percentage of the workforce. The National Girls in ICT initiative seeks to bridge this gap by providing a platform for girls to learn, network, and gain insights into the latest trends and innovations in ICT,” he noted.
The Director General for the Ghana-India Kofi Annan Centre of Excellence in ICT (GI-KACE), Ing. Dr Collins Yeboah Afari, advocated for the collective effort to empower women and girls in tech to help shape a future generation of digital leaders. Ing. Dr Collins Yeboah Afari, expressed satisfaction with the help and support that GI-KACE has brought onboard since the inception of the Girls in ICT program initiative.
He was optimistic that GI-KACE especially the faculty members will continue to train teachers and girls who are selected for the program in a range of activities designed to inspire and educate them about the opportunities in ICT.
“All participants will have the chance to engage in hands-on learning experiences, including scratch, coding, robotics and interactive sessions with industry experts. These activities will not only equip the teachers and girls with valuable skills but also expose them to the vast potential of technology in solving real-world problems,” he indicated.
The Minister for Gender, Children, and Social Protection Hon. Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, commended the Ministry for the consistency of the Girls In ICT program each year helping to bridge the gap and improve the inclusivity of girls in ICT.
“One great thing about the National Girls in ICT initiative, is the opportunity for the girls who participants to connect with women who are already making a mark in the ICT industry. Through mentorship programs and networking sessions, the girls are able to learn from experienced professionals, gain valuable insights, and build relationships that can help shape their future careers,” she said.
The Ministry is committed to empowering young girls through initiatives such as the flagship Girls In ICT program.