The Ghana-India Kofi Annan Centre of Excellence in ICT (GI-KACE) has participated in the official launch of the AES Digital Literacy Academy for Informal Sector Entrepreneurs, an initiative designed to equip entrepreneurs and small business owners with practical digital skills to improve business growth, competitiveness, and sustainability in the digital age.
The event, organised by the Africa Entrepreneurship School (AES), brought together policymakers, development partners, financial institutions, technology experts, entrepreneurs and ecosystem stakeholders to discuss the critical role of digital literacy in advancing entrepreneurship, financial inclusion and economic development across Africa.
The Digital Literacy Academy seeks to empower entrepreneurs operating in the informal sector with the knowledge and tools needed to leverage technology for business operations, customer engagement, digital marketing, financial management, record-keeping, and e-commerce. The initiative also aims to encourage business formalisation, improve access to funding opportunities and strengthen the overall entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Speaking on the topic, “Why Do You Need Digital Skills to Grow Your Business?”, Dr Andrews Ayiku, PhD, a Senior Lecturer at the Faculty of Management Studies at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA), underscored the importance of leveraging digital tools to understand customer needs and improve business performance.
He noted that modern consumers seek value and variety, adding that businesses must utilise digital platforms to better understand Customer Purchasing Behaviour (CPB) and respond effectively to market demands.
Participants further engaged in an interactive session led by Mr Ayiku, who facilitated discussions on the use of social media for business. Attendees reflected on why they use social media, how they currently utilise digital platforms, and the skills they need to enhance their online presence and business impact. During the discussion, several participants expressed interest in learning how to effectively use Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools in their businesses, while others were eager to understand how to create engaging content that can reach wider audiences and go viral on social media platforms.
In the presentation of the Director of graphic design and print firm, Maskmark and CEO of PEDNET, Mr Terry Mante, challenged participants to position themselves as individuals whom opportunities seek out by continuously investing in personal development, acquiring relevant digital skills and embracing innovation.
He concluded with an engaging session on Digital Transformation, introducing participants to the seven pillars of digital transformation: Knowledge, Virtualization, Disintermediation, Innovation, Immediacy, Convergence, and Globalization. The session highlighted how businesses can leverage technology to improve efficiency, connect directly with customers, eliminate unnecessary barriers, and expand beyond local markets.
A key highlight of the event was the official unveiling and launch of the AES Digital Literacy Academy, which will embark on a nationwide drive to engage and train entrepreneurs through associations and business groups across the country.
The programme will focus on providing practical training in digital literacy, social media utilisation, business management and technology adoption to help entrepreneurs thrive in the evolving digital economy.
The event brought together entrepreneurs, business leaders, and industry experts to share practical knowledge on entrepreneurship, financial management, and digital transformation, and to celebrate the launch of ‘The Entrepreneur’s Payday’.
The book launch highlighted the importance of financial discipline among entrepreneurs. Speakers encouraged business owners to separate personal finances from business operations, pay themselves structured salaries, and cultivate a savings culture to ensure long-term business sustainability. Participants also learned about investment opportunities such as mutual funds, which allow individuals to grow their wealth through professionally managed investments.
GI-KACE remains committed to supporting initiatives that advance digital inclusion and entrepreneurship, while building the capacity of individuals and businesses to fully participate in Ghana’s digital economy.