The Minister for Communications and Digitalisation, Mrs. Ursula Owusu-Ekuful (MP), has inspired young girls to explore careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), highlighting their pivotal role in shaping Ghana’s digital landscape.
She was speaking at the climax of the 2024 Girls in ICT mentorship programprogram in Kumasi, on Tuesday November 19th 2024, at KNUST Business School.
This year’s global theme, “Leadership,” aligns with Ghana’s goal to empower women and girls for leadership roles locally and globally.
The Girls in ICT mentorship program aims to bridge the gender digital divide, enhance digital literacy and skills, foster entrepreneurship and innovation and also provide mentorship, role models, and networking opportunities.
Mrs. Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, stated that, “Through such initiatives, Ghana is making strides toward achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 5, supported by the ICT4AD Policy to bridge the gender digital divide.”
She expressed, “I am honored to be part of this transformative initiative, which aims to empower young girls to embrace opportunities in technology. Your involvement in this program is a crucial step toward unlocking your potential and contributing to Ghana’s digital future.
To excel, cultivate curiosity, persistence, and a love for learning. The Girls in ICT program offers a unique platform for growth, skill development, and networking. Seize this moment and maximize your potential.”
The sector Minister noted that, as ICT skills become essential across sectors from healthcare to finance, Ghana has celebrated Girls-in-ICT since 2012, by training over 13,981 girls and women.
She called on parents, educators, and industry players to support and encourage young girls in their pursuit of STEM education and careers.
Participants of the Girls in ICT program acquired practical experience in coding, web development, and digital marketing. They also gained enhanced problem-solving and critical thinking abilities, access to mentorship from seasoned professionals, and as well improved employability and entrepreneurial capabilities.
“The Girls in ICT program has broadened my horizons and exposed me to limitless possibilities in technology. I am deeply grateful for this opportunity,” said Emmanuella Obu, a participant.
Pamela Obeng Andoh, another beneficiary, also expressed “The mentorship sessions have been truly inspirational. I now believe I can achieve my aspirations in tech.”
Key among the components of the program include training about 100 teachers from the selected regions, training 1,000 girls from across the districts in Ashanti Region.
Prizes like laptops, modems, certificates and cash were awarded to outstanding girls, whereas top-performing schools also got ICT labs.
The mentorship sessions featured distinguished industry experts, like Dr. Nana Yaa Tina Owusu-Prempeh (Rev), Felicia Evame Thornhill, Abigail Owusu Prempeh, Prof. Vivian Etsiapa Boamah, Rosemary Atta-Konadu Amponsah, Ms. Audrey Agyiriwaa Barkoh, Ms. Nana Yaa Yeboah, and Esther Yenulom Ametepey. Their guidance and expertise provided invaluable inspiration to the program’s participants.
