Slamm Foundation empowers youth with cybersecurity, IT skills

The Slamm Foundation, in partnership with the Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council (ARCC) and the National Youth Authority (NYA), has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing the country’s digital transformation by equipping young people with essential skills in cybersecurity and Information Technology (IT).

The week-long Cybersecurity and IT Training Programme, held in Kumasi, brought together over 120 young participants and offered practical instruction in cybersecurity monitoring and policy, basic networking, IT audit, digital forensics, and investigative tools.

Chief Executive Officer of Slamm Foundation, Dr. Samuel Boateng, said the initiative forms part of the foundation’s long-term vision to empower African youth with technology-driven skills that are relevant to the global digital economy.

“I have acquired cybersecurity and IT knowledge over the past 25 years, and I believe there’s no better way to give back than to share that knowledge. The world is changing, and Africa—especially Ghana—must be part of this digital revolution. My wife and I founded Slamm Technology in 2007, and for the past five years, we have trained more than 200,000 young people. Our goal is to train one million within the next ten years,” Dr. Boateng said.

He explained that the training aligns with the global Cybersecurity Awareness Month and aims to help the youth develop the digital competencies needed to create jobs, start technology-driven enterprises, and contribute to national development. “We are targeting the youth so they can build their technology ideas and create employment opportunities. That’s how we build a stronger digital Ghana,” Dr. Boateng added.

Founder, Slamm Foundation, Francisca Boateng, for her part, expressed commitment to providing further support to the participants. She further encouraged the participants to start applying the knowledge gained in their various communities. "I wish to congratulate the participants and want to encourage them to make the most of what they jave learned here this week. We are ready and available to support - internships, job opportunities- them all the way through.

Representing the Ashanti Regional Minister, Deputy Director of Administration at the ARCC, Samuel Twum, commended the initiative, describing it as timely and impactful. “This training has come at a time when technology and innovation, along with related cybersecurity challenges, are on the rise. It covered key cybersecurity concepts, practical demonstrations, and hands-on exercises that have enhanced participants’ skills. These employable IT skills will enable them to contribute meaningfully to Ghana’s digital transformation," he said.

Mr. Twum, expressed appreciation to the Slamm Foundation and its partners for their continuous investment in Ghanaian youth, emphasising that the ARCC remains committed to working with such organisations to strengthen the nation’s digital future. “The Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council is forever grateful to the Slamm Foundation for this impactful collaboration. We encourage all participants to apply what they have learned to improve their lives and Ghana’s cyberspace,” he stated.

The Ashanti Regional Director of the National Youth Authority (NYA), George Owel Amponsah, also praised the programme’s success, highlighting its role in promoting digital literacy and responsible online behaviour among young people.

“This training has empowered our young people with the knowledge and skills to thrive in the digital age. We are especially grateful to Slamm Foundation, Slamm Technology, ISC2, ARCC, and the Regional Minister for their unwavering support. Today marks the beginning of a new journey—turning dreams into innovations and businesses. We encourage participants to start modestly through voluntary service, internships, and mentorship.”

He added that the NYA will continue to collaborate with Slamm Foundation and other partners to connect graduates of the training to firms for internships and job opportunities.

“We want to encourage you not to rush. Volunteer, gain experience, and grow into your dreams. Our doors are always open to support you,” Mr. Amponsah assured.

One of the participants, Fathia Chindo Yahaya, shared how the training had transformed her understanding of cybersecurity and her sense of purpose within her community. “For the past five days, we have gained knowledge on cybersecurity, networking, and risk management—especially how to identify when a system is under threat and how to address it early. I now have the full confidence to go back home and help the women in my community, especially market women, to be vigilant and to use strong passwords to protect their financial accounts,” she said.

By:  Nana Appiah Acquaye