A landmark event took place today as the Ministry of Communications and Digitalization (MoCD), in collaboration with the Ghana Indian Kofi Anna Centre of Excellence in ICT (GI-KACE) and the Ghana Investment Fund for Electronic Communications (GIFEC), convened an inception meeting for the Girls-In-ICT Initiative.
This gathering brought together key stakeholders including the Greater Accra Regional Coordinating Council (RCC), regional and municipal assemblies, girl child educators, and the Regional Education Director. The purpose of this meeting was to outline the program’s objectives, clarify roles, and set expectations for all involved parties.
A statement delivered on behalf of the Minister for Communications and Digitalisation, Mrs. Ursula Owusu-Ekuful (MP), by the Chief Director, Mr. Alexander Yaw Arphul, highlighted the core aim of the Girls-In-ICT initiative: to equip young girls with essential ICT skills. “Promoting gender equality in ICT will not only bridge the gender gap but also drive innovation and economic growth,” Mr. Arphul read from the Minister’s message.
The initiative is designed to offer comprehensive training in basic computer skills, programming fundamentals, and website creation over a three-week period. A total of 1,000 girls from public schools across 29 districts in the Greater Accra region will benefit from this training.
This effort is part of the ministry’s commitment to inspiring more girls to pursue studies and careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), thus addressing the gender digital divide in the ICT sector.
Mr. Arphul emphasized the importance of the 2024 Girls-In-ICT Initiative in creating a more inclusive environment.
“The programme promises to empower young girls in Greater Accra to explore vast opportunities in the digital world, ensuring they are well-equipped to contribute to the country’s technological and economic advancement.”
Mr. Alexander Yaw Arphul, Chief Director MoCD
In addition, the Greater Accra Regional Minister, Hon. Daniel Titus Glover, also underscored the significance of gender equality in ICT, referencing Sustainable Development Goals 4 and 5, which focus on quality education and gender equality, respectively.
Hon. Daniel Titus Glover stated, “Investing in ICT education and training is not only a strategic imperative for economic development but also a vital component of social equity and progress.”
The Regional Minister noted that by providing 1,000 girls with ICT skills, the initiative addresses the gender gap in technology and promotes equal opportunities in the digital sector.
According to Hon. Daniel Titus Glover, encouraging young girls to pursue STEM studies and careers will contribute to a more diverse and innovative workforce in the future.
Equipping young girls with ICT skills enhances their employability and potential to contribute to economic growth, driving innovation and technological advancement in Ghana.
Hon. Glover again extended his appreciation to the MoCD and its partners, pledging full support from the RCC to ensure the successful implementation of the programme in the Greater Accra Region.
The partnership between MoCD, GI-KACE, and GIFEC is set to create lasting change by equipping young girls with the skills needed to thrive in the digital age, thus fostering a more inclusive and innovative future for Ghana.
The Girls-In-ICT Initiative represents a significant stride towards achieving gender parity in the ICT sector. By providing targeted training and fostering an environment conducive to learning, the program aims to empower young girls, opening doors to new opportunities in the digital economy. With the support of key stakeholders and the dedication of the participating girls, this initiative promises to make a lasting impact on the future of technology and economic development in Ghana.
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