By:
Robert Kwaku Annor
The Minister for
Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, has
urged young girls to embrace technology, innovation and artificial intelligence
(AI) as he officially opened the 2025 Girls-In-ICT Open Day.
The five-day programme
brings together 100 outstanding beneficiaries of the 2025 Girls-In-ICT
initiative, with 50 girls selected from each of the Volta and Upper West
Regions.
Speaking at the opening
ceremony, Minister George described the Girls-In-ICT programme as a national
investment in Ghana’s future, aimed at equipping girls with the digital skills,
confidence and opportunities required to become the next generation of technology
leaders.
He said women remain
underrepresented in critical technology fields including artificial
intelligence, cybersecurity, software engineering and data science, stressing
that expanding digital skills among girls would help transform communities
while strengthening Ghana’s competitiveness in the global digital economy.
The Minister encouraged the
beneficiaries to move beyond being consumers of technology and become creators,
innovators and problem-solvers capable of developing digital solutions to
real-world challenges.
“Do not let anyone convince
you that technology is reserved for other people,” he told the girls, urging
them to see themselves as future software developers, AI researchers,
technology entrepreneurs and leaders.
The programme is being held
under the theme “Girls in ICT for Inclusive Digital Transformation” and is
designed to prepare participants to contribute meaningfully to an increasingly
AI-driven economy.
During the five-day
programme, participants will engage with ICT institutions and technology
companies and take part in mentorship sessions with female professionals. They
will also receive hands-on training in emerging technologies, coding,
leadership, career development and entrepreneurship, alongside team-building
activities.
Minister George also urged
the girls to promote the ethical and responsible use of artificial intelligence
and digital technologies, particularly in areas such as privacy, cybersecurity,
misinformation, fairness and algorithmic bias.
He encouraged the
participants to become ambassadors for other young women by sharing their
experiences and inspiring more girls to pursue careers in ICT, STEM and AI.
The Minister challenged the
beneficiaries to “learn, innovate, lead and succeed” as they prepare to play a
more active role in Ghana’s digital transformation.
