In classrooms scattered across Ghana, from the savannah plains of the North-East to the lush green hills of the Volta Region, a quiet revolution is underway. Young girls, some barely in their teens, are learning to write code, design websites, and animate digital characters. For many, it is their first introduction to the world of Information and Communication Technology (ICT). And behind this transformative journey is Ghana’s telecom behemoth – MTN Ghana.
Through its sustained investment in the National Girls-in-ICT Initiative, MTN Ghana is not just providing tools and training, it is helping reshape the future for thousands of young Ghanaian girls.
The Girls-in-ICT programme, spearheaded by the Ministry of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, is a national flagship initiative aimed at equipping girls aged 9 to 15 and their teachers with digital skills that are essential for the future workforce. Since its launch, the programme has reached over 13,000 girls and 1,300 teachers in 11 regions of Ghana, including Ashanti, Volta, Northern, Savannah, Bono, and Greater Accra.
From Commitment to Action
MTN Ghana’s involvement began in earnest in 2021, during its 25th anniversary celebrations. The company pledged GH¢ 10 million over three years to support the Ministry’s vision. But that was just the beginning. Today, that investment has grown to a remarkable GH¢ 17.6 million, a testament to the telecom company’s deep commitment to digital empowerment and gender inclusion.
At the recent climax event for the Volta Region edition, the energy was electric. Girls presented games and apps they had developed, proudly demonstrating their new skills to an audience of educators, officials, and MTN executives.
Speaking at the event, Adwoa Wiafe, MTN Ghana’s Chief Corporate Services and Sustainability Officer, highlighted the broader mission behind the initiative.
“At MTN, we believe in inclusivity, empowering girls, the differently abled, and all who deserve a chance,” she said.
“We are not just investing in words but in action. We want to make sure every Ghanaian child, especially girls, can access hands-on, practical ICT education. The future belongs to those with digital skills. It’s not a luxury anymore, it’s a necessity.”
She added, “Our CEO, Stephen Blewett, always says the next big thing must come from Africa. We are here to help make that happen by providing the skills, the tools, and the platform.”
Beyond the Classroom
The Volta Region edition is one of three regional events planned for this year, with upcoming engagements set to take place in the Upper East and Upper West Regions. Meanwhile, the Ministry is preparing to establish a Trust Fund to ensure the long-term sustainability and expansion of the programme.
MTN Ghana’s support forms part of its broader Diversity and Inclusion strategy and aligns with its vision to lead the delivery of a bold new digital world, one where everyone, regardless of gender or geography, can reap the benefits of a connected life.
Real Impact, Real Futures
For the girls who have gone through the programme, the impact is deeply personal. Many come from communities where access to digital technology is limited or non-existent. Learning to code or build a website doesn’t just open doors, it opens minds to a world of possibilities.
As MTN Ghana continues to invest in the next generation of digital leaders, one thing is clear: the seeds being planted today could bear fruit far beyond Ghana’s borders. In the words of Adwoa Wiafe, “We are not just preparing these girls for jobs, we’re preparing them to lead.”
Source: www.KumasiMail.Com/JosephZiem
