MTN Ghana has invested more than GH¢19 million in training girls in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) across the country over the past five years.
Chief Corporate Services and Sustainability Officer of MTN Ghana, Adwoa Wiafe, disclosed this during the Girls in ICT Initiative programme held in Wa, which was attended by over 100 girls from basic schools in the Upper West Region.
The initiative, which has so far trained over 1,000 girls from basic schools, seeks to bridge the gender gap in the technology industry and empower girls with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to thrive in the digital world.
Ms. Wiafe said MTN remains a strong supporter of the initiative, describing it as a powerful step towards bridging the digital divide.
She noted that MTN Ghana believes diversity and inclusion are not just values to aspire to but essential components of innovation and progress. She urged the participants to take advantage of the training and continue learning beyond the programme.
Deputy Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation, Mahama Sukparu, who represented the sector minister, Sam Nartey George, reiterated government’s commitment to transforming the ICT sector.
He stressed that technologies and connectivity are rapidly transforming economies across the globe, and Ghana cannot afford to be left behind.
“Girls in ICT provides another opportunity not only to bridge the digital gap but also to equip our girls and women with basic computer skills to whip their interest in STEM and consider future careers in this lucrative sector,” he said.
According to him, the ministry trains 3,000 girls and 300 ICT teachers in three administrative regions annually. He added that in recent years, the programme has included girls with special needs — a testament to government’s commitment to inclusivity.
Chairman of the Parliamentary Select Committee on Communication and Member of Parliament for Bunkpurugu, Dr. Abed Bandin, challenged the ministry to design modules that will help young girls develop employable skills relevant to emerging technologies.
Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Investment Fund for Electronic Communications (GIFEC), Sofo Tanko Rashid, announced plans to equip all community centres across districts with computers to enhance digital literacy.
The event was climaxed with an awards ceremony for outstanding participants. Denita Etonam Charles of Wa St. Andrews Basic School emerged the overall best performer, receiving GH¢3,500, a laptop, and a fully furnished ICT centre for her school.
As part of the programme, a mentorship session was held where accomplished women professionals shared their experiences to motivate and inspire the girls to pursue their dreams in the digital space.