“Gov’t is committed to strengthening systems, policies that safeguard Ghanaian children in digital space” - Gender Minister

The Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, has reaffirmed government’s commitment to strengthening systems and policies that safeguard Ghanaian children in the digital space.

Speaking at the Champion of Champions edition of the 2025 National Cybersecurity Challenge held at the CEDI Conference Centre, University of Ghana, Legon, Dr. Lartey described the event as a bold demonstration of Ghana’s collective resolve to protect the rights of young people in an increasingly digital world.

The competition, organized by the Cyber Security Authority (CSA) in collaboration with the Ministry of Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation, brought together past winners of previous editions to compete for the national title of Cybersecurity Champion of Champions.

Before delivering her keynote address, Dr. Lartey joined participants in observing a minute’s silence in memory of the late Former First Lady, Her Excellency Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings, whom she described as “an icon and a mother who championed child education, women’s empowerment, and social inclusion.”

“Her life was one of impact, and her legacy will remain with us forever,” she said, praying for the peaceful repose of the former First Lady’s soul.

Dr. Lartey commended the Cyber Security Authority for sustaining the National Cybersecurity Challenge as a platform that nurtures digital literacy, responsible online behaviour, and innovation among Ghanaian youth.

She emphasized that in today’s world, children’s lives are deeply intertwined with technology — bringing both opportunities and risks.

“While technology opens doors to learning, creativity, and connection, it also exposes our children to new dangers such as online harassment, exposure to harmful content, hate speech, and the unethical use of their personal data,” she cautioned.

Citing findings from the World Economic Forum, Dr. Lartey warned of the alarming rise in online child sexual exploitation and abuse, noting that both Ghanaian and global children are at risk of being manipulated into sharing intimate images or coerced into harmful acts.

To address these challenges, she highlighted ongoing collaborations between her ministry and the Cyber Security Authority under initiatives such as the Ghanaian Against Child Abuse (GACA) campaign and the Safer Digital Ghana programme.

These efforts, she said, have led to nationwide awareness campaigns targeting parents, teachers, and communities, as well as specialized training sessions that empower children to become responsible digital citizens.

At the policy level, Dr. Lartey revealed that the Children’s Act is currently under review to reflect the realities of the digital era — a directive given by President John Dramani Mahama. The revised Act, she explained, will include explicit provisions for online safety and stronger protections for children’s rights in cyberspace.

Addressing the students present, the Minister advised:

“Remember, the internet never forgets. What you post today will shape how future employers, schools, and others perceive you. Let your digital footprints reflect your values, aspirations, and integrity.”

She outlined the Ministry’s three-pillar approach to building a safer digital ecosystem for children:

1. Education – equipping children with the skills to navigate online spaces safely and responsibly.

2. Protection – ensuring strong policies, effective reporting systems, and professional response mechanisms.

3. Empowerment – enabling young people to become advocates for online safety and pursue careers in cybersecurity.

Dr. Lartey congratulated all participating schools and commended the eventual winners, noting that beyond the competition, the initiative is about building “a generation of responsible and ethical users of cyberspace.”

“We may not have glasses here,” she said with a smile, “but we raise an imaginary toast to the rise of a generation ready to use digital tools responsibly and make Ghana proud.”

In other development, St. Peter’s Senior High School emerged champion of the 2025 National Cybersecurity Challenge, triumphing over OLA Girls’ Senior High School and St. Monica’s Senior High School in a thrilling final round.

The competition, held as part of Ghana’s National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, was spearheaded by the Cyber Security Authority (CSA) to promote safe online practices among students and nurture the next generation of cybersecurity experts.

In the final, the three schools were tested in cyber safety, threat detection, and digital forensics.

St. Peter’s displayed exceptional technical and analytical skills to secure the top spot, with OLA Girls and St. Monica’s placing second and third respectively.

Representing the Minister for Communication, Hon. Samuel Nartey George, Mr. Emmanuel Ofori commended the students for their creativity and problem-solving abilities.

He emphasized that the competition demonstrates the government’s commitment to fostering a secure digital ecosystem.

Mr. Ofori noted that Ghana’s youth are not just consumers of technology but also defenders of the nation’s digital future.

He stressed the importance of cybersecurity awareness, which empowers citizens to protect themselves in an increasingly digital society.

He further called for stronger collaboration among government agencies, the private sector, educational institutions, and international partners to build robust digital skills capable of countering emerging cyber threats.

The National Cybersecurity Challenge continues to serve as a platform for identifying young talent, promoting ICT education, and encouraging responsible digital citizenship across Ghana.

Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith