The Girls-In-ICT initiative, led by the Ministry of Communications and Digitalisation, has sparked a wave of inspiration among its beneficiaries in Greater Accra.
At a mentorship programme held in Accra yesterday, young girls were encouraged to fearlessly pursue careers in Information Communication Technology (ICT) despite existing challenges.
Speakers at the event, Prof. Elsie Effah Kaufman, Dean of the School of Engineering at the University of Ghana, emphasised the importance of bridging the gender gap in STEM fields.
IT programmes
Prof. Kaufman stressed the critical role of programmes like Girls-In-ICT in empowering young women to explore ICT disciplines crucial for global innovation and development.
Dr. Nana Yaa Tina Owusu-Prempeh (Rev.), Chairperson of the Ghana Domain Registry, shared her personal journey, indicating “the value of perseverance and seizing opportunities, regardless of their size or initial appeal”.
Madam Juliana Jones Ametorwogo, who works at Telecel Ghana, described the Girls-In-ICT programme as a course of convenience dear to heart.
She recounted the challenges, obstacles encountered but said she had to defy the odds to become a specialist in ICT at the Telecel Ghana despite been a woman.
She urged students to remain steadfast in their pursuit of knowledge and skill development.
Education
Maame Ama Simpson, Manager of Enterprise Segment & Product Development at MTN Ghana, emphasised the need for young women to prioritise education and career aspirations over societal expectations.
She encouraged the students to embrace opportunities now and not delay their advancement in the ICT industry.
The Girls-In-ICT initiative, which has selected 1000 students from basic schools across Greater Accra, focuses on training in coding, animation, cybersecurity, and other ICT courses.
The Ministry of Communications and Digitalisation plans to award laptops to the top 100 students, with additional prizes for schools and top performers during an upcoming competition.
The event culminated in a renewed commitment from mentors and stakeholders to support young women in ICT, ensuring they are well-equipped to drive technological advancement in Ghana and beyond.
A section of the Girls-In-ICT beneficiaries during the mentorship programme
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