Telecel Ghana’s foundation will train 1,000 students in the Ashanti Region in digital skills by the end of 2026. This initiative, called Telecel Ashanti Codes, focuses on coding, robotics, and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies. The program targets upper primary and junior high school students across key communities.
This training represents a significant investment by Telecel Ghana in developing a digital talent pipeline for the nation. It aims to prepare young Ghanaians for a future economy driven by technology. The initiative launched at the Nana Afia Kobi Serwaa Ampem II Library in Kumasi.
Telecel Ghana’s effort aligns with broader national goals to boost digital literacy and participation in the digital economy. Ghana’s government has actively promoted digitalization across various sectors. This program contributes directly to producing a skilled workforce capable of innovating within the technology space. The Mayor of Kumasi, Hon. Richard Ofori Agyemang Boadi, emphasized the importance of digital literacy for economic participation. He stated that the country's economic future hinges on digitalisation.
Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, praised the initiative as a timely intervention. He noted that it aligns with the region's ambitions to prepare young people for a technology-driven future. Dr. Amoakohene pledged the Regional Coordinating Council's support to expand youth skills development. He encouraged participants to use their new skills to solve community and national challenges.
Students will receive structured weekend training from technology specialists at Asustem Robotics. The curriculum includes design thinking and problem-solving. Participants will complete capstone projects addressing local community issues. These projects demonstrate how learners can apply technology to practical problems.
The program is a core part of the Telecel Ghana Foundation’s Connected Learning pillar. It is also a key education-focused investment during this year's Telecel Ashanti Month celebrations. Komla Buami, Director of External Affairs at Telecel Ghana, highlighted the company's commitment. He stated that Telecel wants Ghanaians to benefit from the digital economy.
The Ghana Library Authority is partnering with Telecel Ghana to deliver the training. Four library facilities in the region will serve as learning centres. These include the Nana Afia Kobi Serwaa Ampem II Library and the Kumasi Central Library. The Wiamoase Library and Nsuta Community Library are also part of the program. The Obuasi Robotics Centre will host training in Obuasi.
Board Chair of the Ghana Library Authority, Dr. Michael Ato Essuman, stressed the program's role. He mentioned its importance in bridging the digital divide. He also highlighted its contribution to preparing young people for future jobs. The Ghana Library Authority already collaborates with Telecel Ghana, having established nine digital libraries previously.
The initiative also aims to encourage girls' participation in digital technology. Women are still significantly underrepresented in this field. Graduates from a pilot cycle showcased technology projects including an obstacle-avoiding robot. They also presented smart bins and smart toll gate systems. These projects demonstrate the practical applications of their new skills.
Emmanuella Konadu Appiah, a St. Anne's Anglican Junior High student, shared her positive experience. She expressed how the training provided new knowledge for her career aspirations. This program strengthens Ghana's ambition to cultivate a digitally literate and innovative young population.