The "Girls in Information and Communication Technologies (ICT)" programme, an initiative of the Ministry of Communication and Digitalisation in Accra, has benefited 100 girls from three areas.
The girls came from the Bono, Bono East, and Ahafo regions and were hosted by American Tower Corporation (ATC) Ghana, a programme partner.
The Girls in ICT programme aims to improve the digital skills of young women and girls interested in careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), specifically ICT. It is also intended to encourage girls and young women to pursue STEM education and employment.
The girls were led through robotics sessions by facilitators who taught them about the design, building, operation, and use of robots.
Additionally, they participated in several problem-solving and critical thinking exercises where they collaborated on ICT-related topics in teams or groups.
Speaking at the event on Tuesday, the CEO of ATC Ghana, Ashutosh Singh, emphasised how important it was to them to prepare the next generation of STEM professionals, particularly girls. As a result, they had worked closely with the Ministry of Communications and Digitalization and remained a key sponsor and stakeholder of the initiative.
“This initiative also aligns with our Digital Communities sustainability project where we have built 10 fully equipped ICT learning centres across the country to provide ICT education for school children and residents in underserved and unserved communities. Plans are underway to build more Digital Communities this year.”
“In recent years, we have witnessed significant strides in bridging the gender gap in the tech sector, but we must acknowledge that there is still much work to be done. I believe that this disparity is not due to lack of talent or capability but rather, the lack of opportunity and encouragement. That is why programs like girls in ICT are very crucial. We as a company, are here to provide you with support, encouragement, and resources needed to pave your path to the industry,” he intimated.
“The ICT industry is a vast and dynamic landscape, encompassing a wide range of fields such as software development, data science, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and so much more. There is a place for each one of you in this ever-evolving digital realm, and your contributions will help shape the future of society.”
“Remember that it is okay to dream big, to aim high for the stars, and to have ambitions beyond what others might expect of you. Embrace your passion and let it guide you on your journey. Pursue your interests fearlessly, and do not be discouraged by the challenges you may encounter along the way,” he stated.
Ashutosh Singh assured the girls that their abilities, suggestions, and distinctive viewpoints were priceless contributions to the field of technology.
He praised the ministry for the project and the girls' instructors and mentors for their contributions, and he urged them to keep up the good work.
ATC Ghana engineer Ethel Kumassah urged the girls to pursue their dreams, believe in themselves, pursue STEM education, and "know that the sky is only but a limit."
Junior High School (JHS) Two student Ahwenepa Osei Yaa from the Nkoranza Methodist School in the Bono East Region was enthusiastic about the course of study, especially because she had learned more about robotics. She also stated that she had decided to pursue a career in computer programming.
Emmanuella Segbenu, a student, also praised the Ministry and ATC for the programme and urged them to continue holding it so that additional girls may take advantage of it.
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