The Minister for Communications and Digitalization, Hon. Ursula Owusu-Ekuful (MP), recently celebrated the remarkable progress and impact of the Girls-in-ICT program in Ghana. The Ministry’s initiative, which began as a modest one-day event, has now grown into a powerful force, positively influencing the lives of 13,981 young girls across the country.
Speaking at the Climax event at the Cedi Conference Centre, University of Ghana, Legon, Hon. Ursula Owusu emphasized the initiative’s growth from a modest one-day event to a powerful movement fostering inclusion in the tech sector.
“Today, we celebrate not only their achievements but also the journey that brought us here,” Hon. Owusu-Ekuful said. The Climax event saw the recognition of 1,000 girls trained in essential ICT skills, including coding, website development, game development, animation, e-safety, computer programming, and Scratch.
The Minister acknowledged the transformative power of ICT and stressed the critical need to ensure girls are not left behind in the digital revolution.
Since its inception, the Girls-in-ICT program aimed to create an inclusive environment where girls can explore and excel in the field of information and communication technology. Hon. Owusu-Ekuful highlighted the Ministry’s success in organizing various initiatives to support this goal, made possible through the backing of numerous sponsors.
Mrs. Owusu-Ekuful also mentioned that the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) has set “Leadership” as the global theme for 2024. She explained the profound relevance of this theme in empowering young girls to envision themselves as influential figures in the tech industry.
“By focusing on leadership, the theme challenges gender stereotypes, builds confidence, and encourages the development of crucial skills such as decision-making and strategic thinking.”
Hon. Ursula Owusu-Ekuful (MP), Minister for Communications and Digitalization
The theme also emphasizes the importance of female role models and mentors, fostering an inclusive and diverse tech ecosystem that drives innovation.
The Minister further expressed her gratitude to all institutions that have committed financial resources to support the initiative, urging current and potential sponsors to view their support as an investment in future leaders.
“So, as you move forward from this celebration to become innovators and global leaders, remember that this is just the beginning. The future is yours to shape, and I have no doubt that you will rise to the occasion and make a remarkable impact.”
Hon. Ursula Owusu-Ekuful (MP), Minister for Communications and Digitalization
Greater Accra Regional Minister’s Remarks
The Greater Accra Regional Minister, Hon. Daniel Nii Kwartei Titus-Glover, echoed the sentiments of the Minister, emphasizing that the Girls in ICT program is a testament to a collective belief that gender should never be a barrier to achieving one’s dreams and aspirations.
“In an era where technology is a driving force of global development, equipping girls with ICT skills is not just a choice but a necessity.”
Hon. Daniel Nii Kwartei Titus-Glover, Greater Accra Regional Minister
Hon. Titus-Glover pointed out that the government’s responsibility is to ensure that girls are not left behind in the digital age. By providing them with the tools and knowledge to navigate and excel in the ICT sector, the government is laying a solid foundation for a more inclusive and innovative future.
Hon. Titus-Glover praised the Girls in ICT Training program for empowering young women with invaluable skills, which he described as great assets that would benefit not only the girls but the nation at large.
Expressing his gratitude, Hon. Titus-Glover thanked the Management and Staff of the Ministry of Communication and Digitalization, the Greater Accra Regional Coordinating Council, Kofi Annan Centre of Excellence (KACE), Ghana Investment Fund for Electronic Communications (GIFEC), teachers, girls, and sponsors.
“Your dedication and hard work have not only equipped these girls with technical skills but have also inspired them to dream big and strive for excellence.”
Hon. Daniel Nii Kwartei Titus-Glover, Greater Accra Regional Minister
The Girls-in-ICT initiative continues to shine as a beacon of progress, showcasing the potential of young girls in Ghana to lead and innovate in the digital era. As the Ministry celebrates these milestones, it remains committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment where girls can thrive and contribute to the tech industry’s future.
The program’s success is a testament to the collaborative efforts of the government, sponsors, educators, and the girls themselves, heralding a promising future for female participation in ICT.
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