The UNIWIZ Foundation has initiated an Advanced Digital Skills Training programme for Ghana Education Service (GES) ICT coordinators in the Greater Accra Region. This programme aims to enhance the effectiveness of digital learning in schools by equipping teachers with essential skills.
Wisdom Larry Quarme-Doe, Founder and CEO of the UNIWIZ Foundation, stated that providing ICT centres alone is insufficient without skilled educators. The two-day training, held on August 6 and 7 at Methodist University, directly addresses this gap. It complements the foundation's ongoing efforts to establish ICT centres in schools nationwide.
This initiative aligns with Ghana's broader push for digital transformation and improved educational outcomes. The government has prioritised digital literacy as a key driver for economic growth and global competitiveness. Effective integration of technology in classrooms is crucial for preparing students for the modern workforce.
Mr. Quarme-Doe emphasised that investment in teacher skills must accompany the provision of ICT facilities. He stated, "If we are providing these e-libraries or ICT centres for schools to ensure or promote digital literacy, then it is very important that the people who are making sure that these children or students acquire these skills or education in digital literacy are also enhanced to propagate that initiative." The Embassy of Switzerland in Ghana provided support for this training, highlighting international collaboration in educational development.
The successful implementation of this training programme could significantly improve digital literacy rates among students. Decision-makers and educational stakeholders will closely watch the programme's expansion to other regions. The UNIWIZ Foundation plans to extend the training to Ashanti, Eastern, and other regions, working with the GES to scale the initiative. This expansion is vital for ensuring equitable access to quality digital education across the country.
The UNIWIZ Foundation's involvement in the National Juniors Challenge quiz programme has provided insights into ICT infrastructure gaps in schools. Mr. Quarme-Doe noted that many schools lack adequate ICT centres, despite ICT being a subject in the challenge. The foundation's e-libraries, which are essentially ICT centres, offer hands-on IT training to address this. Combining infrastructure with teacher training ensures that students are the direct beneficiaries of these efforts.
The current programme in Greater Accra is the second edition, following an earlier training in March. This consistent effort underscores the foundation's commitment to long-term digital education development. The partnership with GES is crucial for integrating these training programmes into the national education framework. This collaboration ensures sustainability and wider reach for the initiative.
Strengthening digital education is increasingly important as technology permeates all aspects of life. Mr. Quarme-Doe highlighted that "everything is now IT," making digital education indispensable. The foundation's strategy of empowering ICT coordinators directly impacts the quality of education delivered in classrooms. This approach ensures that the benefits of ICT infrastructure are fully realised by students across Ghana.