Telecommunications company, MTN Ghana has partnered with the Communications Ministry to train and equip more than one thousand girls with basic ICT skills.
The mentoring session forms part of a Girls-in-ICT initiative which the Communications Ministry is executing.
Since its inception, MTN Ghana has supported the programme with ¢12.6 million to cover the cost of the project from 2021 to 2023.
Speaking at a ceremony to climax the celebration of the Girls-in-ICT program in Koforidua, the Chief Corporate Services and Sustainability officer of MTN Ghana, Adwoa Wiafe said "It is very gratifying to see young girls fully engaged in this programme.
In a world where technology drives innovation, empowerment, and progress, it is important to celebrate and encourage the participation of girls and women in the ICT sector. So, we are here today to acknowledge the incredible potential we see in you with the aim to inspire, educate, and empower you, the future generation of women in technology".
According to her, the theme for the event: Digital Skills for Life, resonates deeply in the rapidly evolving world and captures the essence of what the company seeks to achieve.
"Our ambition at MTN is to lead digital solutions for Africa’s progress and deliver a bold new digital world. ICT is the future. It offers limitless opportunities for creativity, innovation, and career growth. It is possibly the answer to many of our developmental challenges.
By exposing you to ICT, we hope that you will indeed provide the solutions required for Africa’s progress," she stated.
She explained that MTN believes in creating an inclusive environment where everyone will have the opportunity to succeed and innovate by supporting and encouraging girls to explore and embrace the world of technology fearlessly.
"Supporting girls to explore and embrace technology not only unlocks their potential but also contributes to a more diverse and inclusive technological landscape". She said.
Much as technology has its positives, Miss Wiafe advised the participants to be wary of the things they post on the internet since according to her 'the internet does not forget'.
As part of the climax, the ministry presented 100 brand new laptop computers to the 100 best girls in this year's Girls-in-ICT training in Upper primary and junior high schools in the Eastern Region.
In all 1000 basic schoolgirls participated in the competition with each receiving certificates of participation.
Also, the top ten girls will all have ICT labs put up in their schools or refurbish them where they already existed. The Top 3 received cash prizes and plaques in addition.
Source: Edwin Kofi Siaw (My JoyOnline)