MTN Ghana’s commitment to bridging the digital gender gap is exemplified by its substantial investment of over GHS17.6 million in the Girls-In-ICT program. This initiative, launched in collaboration with the Ministry of Communications, Digitalisation, and Digital Technology and Innovation, aims to equip young girls aged 9 to 15 with essential digital skills for the future. Originating as part of MTN’s 25th-anniversary celebrations, the program’s funding has progressively increased, demonstrating the company’s dedication to its long-term success. Focusing on both basic and advanced digital literacy, the program covers a range of topics annually, including “Connected Girls,” “Digital Skills for Life,” and “Leadership,” ensuring participants develop a comprehensive understanding of the digital landscape. The program’s reach extends across the nation, impacting thousands of girls, particularly those in underserved and rural communities, including girls with disabilities. This inclusive approach ensures that all girls have the opportunity to participate in the digital revolution, regardless of their background or circumstance.
The Girls-In-ICT program’s impact goes beyond simply providing training. It includes the establishment of 197 ICT centers in schools, ensuring ongoing access to digital learning resources. Furthermore, over 1,200 teachers have received training, enabling them to effectively integrate digital literacy into their curriculum and support their students’ continued development. MTN’s investment also includes providing laptops to the top 100 performing girls and their trainers each year. This crucial element ensures equal access to technology, a fundamental requirement for effective participation in the digital age. By equipping both students and educators with the necessary tools, MTN is fostering a sustainable ecosystem for digital learning and empowering girls to pursue their passions in technology.
A flagship event of the Girls-In-ICT program is the annual Open Day held in Accra. This week-long immersive experience provides top-performing participants with an unparalleled opportunity to connect with and learn from prominent women in technology and government. Mentorship sessions offer valuable insights, guidance, and inspiration, encouraging girls to pursue careers in STEM fields and become future leaders in the digital world. This unique opportunity fosters a sense of community and empowerment, connecting young girls with role models who have paved the way in the technology sector. The Open Day serves as a culmination of the year’s learning and a springboard for future aspirations, solidifying the program’s impact on participants’ lives.
MTN’s commitment to digital education extends beyond the Girls-In-ICT program, encompassing broader initiatives through its Foundation. Funding for ICT laboratories, libraries, and robotics centers in approximately 30 schools demonstrates the company’s comprehensive approach to empowering the next generation with digital skills. A notable example is the state-of-the-art facility provided for Mamfe Girls, two-time winners of the World Robotics Competition, highlighting MTN’s support for excellence in STEM education. The Foundation’s activities also reach into universities, providing scholarships in STEM fields and ensuring continuous support throughout the educational journey. This multi-faceted approach ensures that digital literacy is nurtured at all levels, from primary school to higher education, creating a robust pipeline of future technology leaders.
MTN Ghana’s commitment to the Girls-In-ICT program is not merely a financial investment; it’s a comprehensive engagement that includes active participation from MTN staff members. Their involvement in training and mentorship sessions reinforces the company’s dedication to developing young girls’ potential. By sharing their expertise and experiences, MTN staff serve as role models, inspiring participants to pursue careers in technology. Beyond technical skills, the program also emphasizes the importance of essential life skills such as volunteerism, leadership, and time management. This holistic approach ensures that the girls are equipped not only with digital proficiency but also with the crucial soft skills needed to succeed in their personal and professional lives.
Looking towards the future, MTN has pledged an additional GHS2 million for Girls-In-ICT activities in 2025. This sustained commitment underscores the company’s belief in the program’s long-term impact and the importance of continuous investment in digital skills development. The emphasis on practical, hands-on training reflects MTN’s understanding that digital literacy is best learned through experience and application. This approach ensures that participants develop not only theoretical knowledge but also the practical skills needed to thrive in the evolving digital environment. The Ministry of Communications and Digitalisation’s plans to establish a Girls-In-ICT Trust Fund further solidify the program’s sustainability and potential for expansion, ensuring its continued impact on generations of young Ghanaian women. This collaborative effort between the public and private sectors demonstrates a shared vision of empowering girls with the digital skills necessary to contribute meaningfully to Ghana’s future prosperity.
