Bawumia Reaffirms Goal to Train 1 Million Youth in IT

Ghana’s Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has reiterated the government’s ambitious plan to train one million youth in information technology (IT) as part of a broader strategy to build a world-class digital economy. This initiative is designed to equip young Ghanaians with the skills needed to thrive in the digital age, thereby creating jobs and driving economic growth.

Speaking at a recent event, Dr. Bawumia emphasized the critical role that IT and digital skills will play in Ghana’s future, stating that the government is committed to making the country a leading hub for technology and innovation in Africa. The training program, which targets youth across various regions, aims to bridge the digital skills gap and ensure that Ghanaian youth are competitive in the global job market.

The initiative is part of a larger effort to transform Ghana’s economy through digitalization, with a focus on key sectors such as finance, healthcare, agriculture, and education. By integrating digital tools and platforms into these areas, the government hopes to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance service delivery.

Dr. Bawumia highlighted that the government’s digitalization agenda has already made significant strides, with the successful implementation of various digital platforms, including the Ghana Card, Mobile Money Interoperability, and the digital property addressing system. These innovations have not only streamlined government services but have also increased financial inclusion and improved access to essential services for millions of Ghanaians.

The Vice President also noted that the IT training program is in line with the government’s broader goal of creating a digital economy that is inclusive and accessible to all. The program will focus on providing training in areas such as coding, software development, cybersecurity, and data analytics. The government plans to collaborate with private sector partners and educational institutions to ensure the program’s success.

As part of the initiative, special attention will be given to empowering women and marginalized communities, ensuring that the benefits of digitalization are shared equitably across the country. The government is also working on developing policies and infrastructure to support the growth of the IT sector, including improving internet connectivity and expanding access to affordable digital devices.

While the goal of training one million youth in IT is ambitious, the government believes that it is achievable with the right support and resources. Dr. Bawumia urged all stakeholders, including the private sector, development partners, and civil society, to join hands in realizing this vision.

The Vice President’s renewed commitment to the IT training program underscores the importance of digital skills in the modern economy. As Ghana continues to pursue its digital transformation agenda, the success of this initiative could position the country as a leader in technology and innovation in Africa, providing a brighter future for its youth and driving long-term economic development.

Source: ghanaweb.com