Telecel Ghana Foundation has graduated 500 young learners from the fourth cohort of its DigiTech Academy across five regions. These students completed a 12-week after-school program focused on robotics, coding, web design, and mobile application development. The initiative aims to equip young Ghanaians with essential digital skills for the future economy.
The graduation ceremonies, held in Yendi, Sawla, Gambaga, Effiakuma, and Enchi, celebrated students who designed over 80 prototype technologies. These innovations, including smart wheelchairs and heartbeat monitoring systems, address challenges within their communities. The program targets upper primary and junior high school students, providing practical experience in technology creation.
This program is a key part of Ghana's broader push to enhance digital literacy and STEM education nationwide. It aligns with government efforts to prepare the youth for a technology-driven global economy. The initiative also addresses the gender gap in science and technology, with approximately 70% of beneficiaries being girls. This focus supports national development goals by building a diverse pool of future innovators.
Philip Fiifi Buckman, Member of Parliament for Kwesimintsim, described the program as an investment in Ghana's future innovators. He stated, "We are grateful to the Telecel Ghana Foundation for bringing this valuable programme to our children." He added that the initiative helps uncover young innovators who can use technology to solve community challenges. The Municipal Director of Education in Yendi, Mohammed Mumuni Adams, also praised the program for complementing classroom learning with practical STEM education.
The successful completion of this cohort signals a continued commitment to digital education in Ghana. Decision-makers and educational institutions will likely observe the long-term impact of these skills on local economies and innovation. The program's expansion, having reached approximately 2,800 learners since 2024, suggests a growing pipeline of tech-savvy youth. This trend could attract further investment in Ghana's technology sector and foster a culture of innovation.
Rita Agyeiwaa Rockson, Head of Foundation, Sustainability and External Communications at Telecel Ghana, emphasized the program's design to move young people beyond consuming technology to creating it. She encouraged learners to build on their knowledge and continue exploring technology. The DigiTech Academy is delivered in partnership with the Ghana Education Service and the Ghana STEM Centre. Implementing partners Mingo Foundation and Asustem Robotics also contribute to the program's success. This collaborative approach ensures that digital knowledge remains within schools through teacher professional development.
The program's impact is evident in student testimonials. Shaban Asmat, a student at Presbyterian Junior High School in Yendi, shared how the academy changed his perception of technology. He said, "Through the programme, I have learned that anyone with the right skills can develop mobile apps." This newfound understanding has inspired him to create applications that can help farmers work more efficiently. Such personal transformations highlight the program's effectiveness in empowering young individuals.
Chief of Kwesimintsim Traditional Area, Nana Egudzi Essoun III, lauded the training initiative and its long-term benefits for local communities. He stated, "This programme has given us the opportunity to witness the incredible talents and potential of these young learners." The continuous development of digital skills among the youth is crucial for Ghana's economic diversification and global competitiveness. The program's focus on practical application ensures that graduates are ready to contribute meaningfully to the digital economy.