The Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation, Mr. Samuel Nartey George, has stated that increasing connectivity is not enough for true digital transformation, but accessibility, affordability, and security are needed to bridge the gender digital divide.
He said this at the climax of the 2025 Girls-in-ICT celebrations held at the University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS) Cedi Auditorium in Ho, Volta Region.
Mr. George stated that the day marks a proud and defining moment for the girls while acknowledging the rich cultural display and hospitality of Ho, the “oxygen city.”
Citing statistics from the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), he noted, “There are 189 million fewer women than men online globally,” stressing the urgency of empowering girls and young women in Ghana.
The Minister mentioned that the introduction of 15 new ICT-related bills in the next sitting of Parliament will align Ghana’s digital policies with international standards.
The Volta Regional Minister, Mr. James Gunu, called for sustained investment and broad stakeholder collaboration to empower girls through digital skills for national development.
He described the event as a celebration of dedication, learning, and growth, emphasising the transformative potential of the initiative for beneficiaries in the region.
Mr Gunu expressed gratitude to the communication minister and partners for bringing the program to the Volta Region, noting that over 3,000 girls and 300 ICT/STEM teachers across three regions will benefit this year from training in web development, cybersecurity, game development, animation, and coding.
The Regional Minister affirmed his commitment, stating, “I have closely monitored the progress of the initiative and pledged the continued support of the Volta Regional Coordinating Council.”
He urged parents and teachers to continue nurturing the aspirations of girls and congratulated the 100 best performers who received laptops as tools for further exploration and innovation in ICT.
“Let us continue to work together to build a future where every girl has the opportunity to shine in the digital age,” Mr Gunu said.
Speaking on behalf of the Agbogbomefia of Asogli State, His Royal Majesty Togbe Afede XIV, the Chairman, Togbe Ayim Diokoto II, stated the importance of bridging the gender digital divide. He urged all stakeholders, the government, the private sector, educators, and parents to actively support girls’ participation in ICT.
He added that digital skills are essential for competitiveness in today’s job market, highlighting that investing in girls’ ICT education is both an economic and social imperative.
Togbe Diokoto II urged awardees to view their new laptops as gateways to innovation and self-empowerment, encouraging all girls to seize the opportunity to become creators and leaders in the digital space.
