News
Training of Girls Under Girls-in-ICT Initiative Kicks Off in Volta Region
The Ministry of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations (MOCDTI) has officially commenced the first batch of the Training of Girls (ToG) component under the flagship Girls-in-ICT initiative in the Volta Region.
The training, which began yesterday, is taking place simultaneously across nine districts, namely: North Danyi, Ketu North, Ketu South, Kpando, Afadzato South, Hohoe, Anloga, Akatsi North, and Keta.
This first phase is part of a broader effort to empower 1,000 girls, selected from all 18 districts in the Volta Region, with foundational ICT knowledge and practical digital skills.
The programme is designed to bridge the gender digital divide by equipping girls with competencies in digital literacy, coding, and basic computer operations, while fostering interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) careers.
The Girls-in-ICT initiative continues to serve as a powerful platform for nurturing talent, reducing gender inequality, and shaping a digitally empowered generation of Ghanaian girls.
Speaking at a brief opening ceremony held at Kpando District, the Member of Parliament (MP), Sebastian Deh, expressed strong support for the Girls-in-ICT programme, describing it as deeply aligned with his personal and political vision for development.
He stated that ICT must be at the core of any meaningful development effort in the constituency.
Mr.Deh emphasized that ICT must be at the heart of all developmental efforts within the constituency.
He acknowledged the contributions of key stakeholders, including the Ministry, the educational managers and GIFEC, and pledged to continue championing ICT advancement at the local level.
“The objective of this programme—empowering girls in ICT—speaks to one of the core reasons I offered myself for public service. If we, as a constituency or a people, wish to truly develop, then ICT must be the foundation of that development,” he remarked.
On his part, the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), Killian Donkor, highlighted the profound responsibility entrusted to the young trainees. He encouraged them to become leaders among their peers, helping others catch up and learn through their example.
According to him, the training is not just about acquiring knowledge—it’s about becoming vessels of transformation, demonstrating leadership, resilience, and excellence in the field of ICT.
Mr.Donkor also reaffirmed the government’s full commitment to the initiative, in partnership with national and international stakeholders.
He emphasized that this mission extends beyond the local level and aligns with the United Nations’ global agenda for digital inclusion and gender equality. He urged the girls to see themselves as global ICT advocates, capable of shaping the future of their communities and the world.
Speaking at the launch, Mr. Peter Nartey, Zonal Coordinator of the Ghana Investment Fund for Electronic Communications (GIFEC), underscored the importance of inclusive digital access for national development.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George (MP), to ensuring that no girl—regardless of location—is left behind in Ghana’s digital transformation agenda.
Mr. Nartey further stated that GIFEC stands ready to provide continuous technical and logistical support to ensure the programme’s success and sustainability.
“This initiative is not just about training; it’s about transforming lives, boosting confidence, and unlocking the potential of young girls to thrive in a technology-driven world,” he noted.
According to Mr. Nartey, the Girls-in-ICT programme has steadily expanded over the years, reaching thousands of girls across multiple regions.
The 2025 training in the Volta Region marks a significant milestone in the Ministry’s efforts to promote digital skills development and inclusive participation in the digital economy.
Subsequent training sessions will take place in the remaining districts, culminating in a regional competition, mentorship, and climax event to celebrate the achievements of the participants.
For the first time in its seven-year history, the celebrated Guinea Fowl Bazaar has been brought to Accra, marking a significant expansion of an event that has, for the past six years, been a staple in Tamale.
The two-day cultural and culinary festival, held from May 1–2, drew over 500 patrons and featured nearly 20 vendors, to promote Northern Ghana’s rich food culture particularly guinea fowl delicacies.
Hosted by By Faith Catering Services, the bazaar brought together traditional leaders, cultural groups, food entrepreneurs, and government representatives in a display of heritage and enterprise.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Angelo Dogbe, the Northern Regional Director of the Ghana Tourism Authority underscored the importance of promoting indigenous cuisine as a tool for economic development and cultural preservation. Chiefs from the Northern Region also graced the occasion, lending traditional authority and reinforcing the cultural significance of the festival.
A major highlight of the bazaar was a series of captivating cultural performances representing the diverse tribes of the Northern Region. Attendees were treated to traditional music, dance, and attire, transforming the venue into a lively tapestry of Northern identity and pride.
Vendors expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity to showcase their products to a new audience in the capital. Many noted increased visibility, networking opportunities, and strong sales throughout the two-day event.
The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of By Faith Catering Services, Mrs. Matilda Zenabu Pipio described the Accra edition as a strategic move to broaden the reach of the festival and create new economic pathways for vendors and producers from the north.
She announced plans to make the Accra bazaar an annual event, emphasizing its potential to boost employment, promote guinea fowl production, and introduce more Ghanaians to the unique flavours of Northern cuisine.
She said, the event is a platform for cultural exchange, economic empowerment, and national unity through food.
She commended partners and called on more organisers to support and invest in initiatives like this.
Meanwhile, the organizers of Guinea fowl Bazaar paid a courtesy call to the Editor of Spectator, Mrs. Georgina Naa-Maku Quaittoo and Mr. David Adadevoh, Acting Editor of The Ghanaian Times.
Both editors lauded the initiatives and encouraged the organizers to sustain it.
Organizers for the initiative and called on stakeholders and cooperate bodies to support this good course.
By Geoffrey Buta.
MTN Ghana has hosted more than 200 students from various educational institutions in Accra for an engaging, hands-on technology immersion at MTN House, bringing classroom theory to life and fueling interest in STEM and digital innovation.
Students from Ashesi University, Ghana International School, Cradle Star Academy, and Kinderland School explored MTN Ghana’s rich history, core values, customer-focused innovations, and digital transformation agenda.
They were introduced to the company’s sustainability and social impact initiatives, spanning education, youth empowerment and community development. A key highlight of the visits was a tour of MTN Ghana’s Network Operations Centre (NOC) and data centres.
The students gained first-hand exposure to the advanced technology, systems, and expertise powering seamless connectivity for millions daily – offering a rare look into how MTN ensures network performance, security, and resilience.
Speaking on the initiative, the Chief Corporate Services and Sustainability Officer at MTN Ghana, Adwoa Wiafe, noted, “Hosting students at MTN House reflects our commitment to shaping Ghana’s digital future. As we deliver our Ambition 2030 strategy, we are deepening investments in youth development through programmes like the Bright Scholarship, the MTN Digital Skills Academy, and collaborations on the One Million Coders Programme and the Girls in ICT initiative led by the Ministry of Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation.”
Paschal Paaga, Manager for IT Projects Implementation, emphasised the importance of experiential learning.
‘’By opening our doors, we are helping to bridge the gap between academia and industry. We want young people to see the real-world impact of technology and be inspired to pursue careers in STEM.”
For many participants, the experience was transformative. Maame Sapomaa, a Level 300 Information Systems student from Ashesi University, shared, “The visit was incredibly inspiring. Everything we have learned in the classroom came to life, and we were exposed to new concepts beyond our studies. It has motivated me even more to pursue a career in technology.”
As MTN Ghana advances its Ambition 2030 vision, the company remains committed to driving digital inclusion, platform-led innovation, and building strategic partnerships that support Ghana’s long-term socio-economic development.
