Volta region: The 2025 National Girls-in-ICT Initiative culminated in a grand celebration in the Volta Region, where 1,000 girls from all 18 Municipal and District Assemblies were honoured for successfully completing the programme. The event, organized by the Ministry of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation, carried the theme 'Girls in ICT for Inclusive Digital Transformation,' marking the end of two weeks of intensive ICT training designed to equip girls with practical digital skills and address the gender gap in technology.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Samuel Nartey George, Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation, commended the participants and emphasized the importance of promoting digital inclusion, particularly among young girls. He highlighted the disparity in digital connectivity, noting that in 2024, there were 189 million fewer women than men online. Mr. George stressed that true digital transformation requires accessibility, affordability, and security for all, and praised the Girls-in-ICT programme for empowering girls to contribute actively to the digital economy.
The initiative, launched in 2012 under the Mills-Mahama administration, has trained over 15,981 girls and 1,492 ICT and STEM teachers, established 97 cyber labs, and distributed more than 2,150 laptops. In 2025, the programme expanded to include the Upper East and Upper West Regions. Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, praised the initiative and underscored the need for sustained investment in internships, mentorships, scholarships, and job opportunities to maintain momentum.
Mr. James Gunu, Volta Regional Minister, described the programme's theme as a mandate for equitable digital empowerment. He commended the Ministry and partners such as MTN, KACE, and GIFEC for their support, linking the programme's success to national development goals. He congratulated the 100 top-performing girls who received laptops, calling the devices 'tools of transformation' and encouraging continued learning and innovation.
Togbe Ayim Dzokoto II, Paramount Chief of Takla, speaking on behalf of Togbe Afede XIV, reaffirmed traditional authorities' commitment to education and technology access, especially for girls. He urged further investment in ICT infrastructure and targeted scholarships for girls in STEM.
During the ceremony, a total of 154 laptops were presented to outstanding participants, ICT teachers, girl-child coordinators, and special awardees. The overall best-performing student was 13-year-old Wosilatu Mohammed from the Akatsi South Municipality. Mr. George reminded the girls of their potential, urging them to overcome stereotypes and fears, and envision their journey in ICT as one full of limitless possibilities.
The event concluded with a call for ongoing collaboration across all sectors to ensure that girls across Ghana become not only users of technology but also innovators, leaders, and creators in the digital world.
