In anticipation of the 2024 mid-year budget review, Finance Minister Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam has met with key stakeholders from the banking sector to discuss pivotal economic strategies. A focal point of the discussion was the government’s plan to channel approximately GHS 1.4 billion through the financial sector for onward lending to viable Small and Medium-scale Enterprises (SMEs) via the Development Bank Ghana (DBG). Dr. Amin Adam emphasized the government’s vision of positioning SMEs as the cornerstone of the country’s economic renaissance. To achieve this, the government will launch the SME Growth and Opportunity Programme on Tuesday, July 16th, aiming to provide substantial support and resources to the SME sector. “The Development Bank Ghana, as part of the programme, is looking to channel close to GHS 1.4 billion through the financial sector for onward lending to viable SMEs. Development partners such as the International Finance Corporation (IFC) are also looking to structure a $400 million package to complement this financial support and ensure we can close the financing gap for our SMEs over the medium term,” Dr. Amin Adam announced. The Finance Minister highlighted the crucial role of banks in this initiative, stressing the need for a collaborative effort to foster sustainable growth and prosperity. “Our economy is at a pivotal juncture, and it is imperative that we work together to ensure sustainable growth and prosperity for all. This meeting is a testament to our commitment to transparency, inclusivity, and shared responsibility in shaping our economic policies,” he said. He further elaborated on the strategic importance of the meeting, stating, “Today, we will discuss key strategies and policies that will impact our economy. We aim to address current economic issues and explore innovative solutions through your inputs. Your insights and feedback are invaluable, and I encourage open and constructive dialogue throughout our discussions.” Acknowledging the challenges and opportunities in the current economic climate, Dr. Amin Adam called for bold and pragmatic approaches to build a resilient and dynamic economy. “We are living in a time of rapid change and uncertainty, but also of great potential. By leveraging our collective expertise and resources, we can create a resilient and dynamic economy that benefits every citizen. This requires us to be bold in our vision, pragmatic in our approach, and united in our efforts,” he stated. He reiterated the government’s commitment to creating a viable SME ecosystem that supports high-growth potential businesses with the necessary technical capacity and financing to scale rapidly and create significant impact. “To that end, Ladies and Gentlemen, the Government has set its sights on creating a viable SME ecosystem that ensures businesses with high-growth potential are given the technical capacity and financing support to scale and rapidly create impact,” Dr. Amin Adam concluded. This engagement with the banking sector underscores the government's dedication to fostering a robust SME environment, which is seen as critical to driving economic growth and development. As the mid-year budget review approaches, the outcomes of these discussions are expected to play a significant role in shaping the country's economic policies and strategies. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Kwame Jantuah, a prominent member of the Convention People’s Party (CPP), has predicted that a presidential debate between Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia and National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer John Dramani Mahama would expose the vice president’s inadequacies, particularly on economic issues. Jantuah argued that such a debate would put Bawumia under scrutiny, forcing him to answer basic questions about the cost of essential commodities like tomatoes and onions. “The debate will expose him. He will be asked how much is food inflation now, how much is tomatoes, and onions, what will he say?” Jantuah stated during an appearance on TV3’s New Day show on Friday, July 12. Adding to this sentiment, NDC’s Director of Conflict Resolution, Abraham Amaliba, dismissed the need for a debate on economic issues, asserting that Ghanaians are already aware of the current economic challenges. Mr. Amaliba pointed out that the exchange rate under the Mahama administration was more stable compared to the present situation. “He should go and debate with the exchange rate. The debate he is looking for with Mahama will be a complete waste of prime time and even suicidal for Bawumia,” Mr. Amaliba commented on the same show. The discussion on a potential debate was ignited by Vice President Bawumia, who recently challenged former President Mahama to a live debate. Addressing his supporters in Bunkpurugu in the North East Region, Bawumia expressed his eagerness for a direct confrontation to discuss their visions and policies. “I am looking forward to a debate with John Mahama on the economy, on the country, on the governance,” he declared. However, Bawumia suggested that Mahama might be avoiding the debate. “I am afraid that he is running away from a debate. His people say he doesn’t want to debate. I have never heard an opposition leader who doesn’t want to debate. But he knows I will expose the emptiness of his policies,” Bawumia added. Dr. Bawumia further criticized Mahama’s proposal for a 24-hour economy, labeling it as “empty” and unexplainable. He accused the former president and his team of making unrealistic promises, such as the exportation of lions and elephants. “When we meet mano a mano, we can debate, and the country will see where our policies lie. We should give the country an opportunity to listen to us. If he chooses not to debate, I’ll continue to sell my policies,” Bawumia said. In many advanced democracies, presidential debates are a cornerstone of the electoral process, providing a platform for candidates to present and defend their policies. There have been numerous calls from civil society groups for such a debate between the two leading candidates to allow Ghanaians to evaluate their plans for the country. With Vice President Bawumia issuing the challenge, the decision now rests with former President Mahama. The public eagerly awaits his response, which could significantly shape the discourse leading up to the elections. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Spokesperson of former President John Dramani Mahama, Joyce Bawah Mogtari has dismissed reports that the flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress has been to Russia to seek assistance from the Russian government for the December Polls. The denial comes on the back of publications by some media outlets that Mr Mahama, under the guise of launching a Russian version of his autobiography entitled ‘My First Coup D’etat’ sought the support of the Russian government in the upcoming December 7 elections. Bawah Mogtari in a statement on Friday, July 12, 2024, described the report as a ‘shadowy and unethical journalism practice’ to defame the flagbearer. Credit: 3news

President Akufo-Addo, has designated the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, and Member of Parliament for Damongo Constituency, Hon. Samuel A. Jinapor, to have Cabinet oversight responsibility over the Energy Ministry. This follows the resignation of the Minister for Energy, Hon. Dr. Matthew Opoku-Prempeh, who has been named running mate to the Presidential Candidate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), H.E. Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia. Several names came up for the running mate position after the election of Dr. Bawumia as the NPP’s flagbearer. However, the flagbearer has settled on the Manhyia South Legislator, who previously served as Minister for Education before moving to the Ministry of Energy. On Tuesday, 9th July, 2024, Dr. Opoku-Prempeh was outdoored as the running mate to the NPP’s Flagbearer at a durbar in Kumasi, Following his unveiling, Dr. Opoku Prempeh is set to resign from his position as Minister for Energy to focus on working with the flagbearer to win the upcoming elections. A Statement issued by the Director of Communications at the Presidency, Mr. Eugene Arhin, on Thursday 11th July, 2024, said the President has accepted the resignation of Dr. Opoku-Prempeh as Energy Minister with effect from 18th July, 2024. The Statement, also, said the President has asked the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Samuel A. Jinpor, MP, to have Cabinet oversight responsibility over the Ministry of Energy, while the Minister of State designate for the Ministry of Energy, Hon. Herbert Krampah will be responsible for the day to day administration of the Ministry. Mr. Jinapor’s oversight responsibility over the Ministry will be in addition to his substantive role as the Minister responsible for Lands and Natural Resources. This is the third time the President has given Mr. Jinapor additional responsibilities over other Ministries. It will be recalled that following the resignation of the former Minister for Trade and Industry, Mr. John Allan Kwadwo Kyeremateng, the President on 13th January, 2023, appointed Mr. Jinapor as the caretaker Minister for the Ministry of Trade and Industry, a position he held for three (3) months until Hon. K.T. Hammond was sworn in as Minister for Trade in April, 2023. Again, following the Ministerial reshuffle in February this year, the Lands and Natural Resources Minister was again designated caretaker Minister for the Ministry of Environment, Science Technology and Innovation (MESTI), pending the approval of Parliament of the then Minister-designate, Hon. Ophelia Mensah Hayford. This shows the confidence the Government has in Mr. Jinapor. For the short period he spent at the Ministry of Trade and Industry, Mr. Jinapor championed some critical policy matters, including a Policy on Consumer Protection. In a Policy Statement delivered to Parliament, he emphasised the need to enact a Consumer Protection Law, and establish Consumer Protection Agency, to protect the rights of consumers, arguing that the common law remedies under contract and tort are inadequate to protect consumers. As Minister with Cabinet oversight responsibility over the Energy Ministry, Mr. Jinapor will be required to deal with some pressing energy matters, including the power situation in the country, the intermittent lights out, and crude oil production, which has been on the decline since 2019, according to the Public Interest and Accountability Committee’s (PIAC’s) 2023 Report. Since the power sector plays a crucial role in every election, Mr. Jinapor’s designation, barely six months to the election, is a crucial one, as analysts look forward to the innovations he will bring to the sector. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

In a significant development, Organized Labour has called an urgent meeting with its members today to discuss the recent approval by the National Pensions Regulatory Commission (NPRA) for the sale of SSNIT's shares in six hotels. The meeting aims to deliberate on the next steps following the NPRA's green light for the sale. The NPRA had initially directed the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) to halt its negotiations with Rock City concerning the sale of four hotels until further evaluation and engagement were conducted. This directive, issued on June 28, was intended to ensure all necessary processes and documentation were completed. However, during a parliamentary session on Thursday, July 11, Employment and Labour Relations Minister Ignatius Baffour-Awuah confirmed that the NPRA has now given the go-ahead for the sale. He stated that the NPRA was satisfied that SSNIT had complied with all due processes. "Yes, it is true that NPRA came up with a directive, but I would appreciate it if my brother, my colleague, really read the directive from NPRA. It said it needed to be furnished with all information relating to the sale of the hotels, which SSNIT has since done," Minister Baffour-Awuah explained. He emphasized that the NPRA's directive was not an outright prohibition of the sale but rather a requirement for SSNIT to provide comprehensive documentation and follow all procedural steps. "So, it wasn’t like a direct something that SSNIT should not go ahead to do anything, but then, SSNIT can only go ahead when NPRA, which is the regulator within the field, had actually certified that they have seen all the documentation and the processes, and they think that we are good to go." The Employment and Labour Relations Minister further outlined the reasons behind the decision to sell SSNIT's 60 percent shares in the hotels. He explained that the move was a strategic decision after multiple restructuring attempts proved inadequate. The sale aims to prevent further depletion of resources and bring in private sector participation. "SSNIT considered only the sale of shares for its hotel investment portfolio as a strategic decision after multiple attempts at restructuring proved insufficient. 70-60% of its shares are deemed the most viable solution to prevent further depletion of resources and to bring in private participation," Minister Baffour-Awuah said. He also addressed concerns about the business viability of the hotels, acknowledging that some of the investments were either generating low returns or incurring losses. "Is it a good business activity? Yes, I want to believe my colleague is listening to me fully, well because I answered by saying that some of the investments are either making low returns or making losses." As Organized Labour meets to discuss these developments, the outcome of their deliberations could significantly impact the future of SSNIT's hotel investments and the broader implications for the pensions and labor sectors in Ghana. Story by: Thinknewsonline

In a recent turn of events, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, the running mate for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has issued a public apology for comments he made regarding Ghana’s first president, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah. Dr. Opoku Prempeh, who is popularly known as NAPO, clarified that his statements were his personal opinions and were not meant to disrespect Dr. Nkrumah or any other former presidents of Ghana. In a statement released to the media, NAPO expressed his sincere regret for any discomfort his comments may have caused. He emphasized that he holds deep respect for all former heads of state, including his grand uncle and mentor, former President John Agyekum Kufuor. “I wish to emphasize that I never meant to disrespect our former president, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, or any of our former heads of state, including my grand uncle and mentor, John Agyekum Kufuor,” Dr. Opoku Prempeh stated. “I note the concerns raised after my statement, and I apologize sincerely and regret any discomfort caused.” The apology comes after a wave of public backlash and concerns raised by various individuals and groups who felt that his comments were inappropriate and disrespectful to the legacy of Dr. Nkrumah. Dr. Opoku Prempeh’s remarks had sparked a significant amount of debate and criticism, leading to his decision to issue a formal apology. As the NPP prepares for the upcoming elections, this incident highlights the sensitivity surrounding the legacies of Ghana’s past leaders and the importance of maintaining respect and decorum in political discourse. Dr. Opoku Prempeh’s apology aims to mend any rifts and restore goodwill among the supporters and the general public. The NPP has yet to release an official statement regarding the incident, but it is expected that they will address the matter in the coming days as the party continues its campaign activities. Dr. Opoku Prempeh's apology underscores the significance of acknowledging past leaders' contributions while fostering a respectful political environment. Story by: Sarah-Joyce Komenan

Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ghana, Prof. Nana Aba Appiah Amfo has reminded young female beneficiaries of the Girls-in-ICT project that success is not solely measured by individual achievements but also by the impact they have on others and their contributions to the greater good. She made these remarks while speaking at the climax of the Girls-in-ICT Day celebrations held at the CEDI Conference Center, University of Ghana on Wednesday. In her address, Prof. Amfo emphasized on the transformative power of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape. Highlighting its role in driving innovation, creativity, and progress, Prof. Amfo encouraged the young participants to harness their ICT skills to create digital solutions to real-world problems, bridge the information access gap, and drive economic growth and development. “The University of Ghana is proud to host this edition of the Girls-in-ICT Day, celebrating and empowering the next generation of female leaders in ICT,” she stated. “ICT is not just about technology; it's about people, impact, and making a difference.” Prof. Amfo lauded the Girls-in-ICT program for promoting Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education, which has a significant positive impact on the national economy. She noted that the initiative enhances digital skills, influences STEM career choices, and develops critical thinking and research skills among participants. “It is refreshing to see that the Girls-in-ICT project has been enhanced to include direct engagements with ICT firms, strengthening the hands-on experience and knowledge acquired through this program,” she remarked. Commending the Ministry of Communication and Digitalization and its partners, Prof. Amfo acknowledged their efforts in championing this initiative, which contributes directly to the attainment of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 4, 5, and 8—ensuring inclusive and equitable education, promoting gender equality, and fostering decent work and economic growth. Reflecting on her goal as Vice-Chancellor to train young people who are critical thinkers, technologically adept, humane, and culturally sensitive, Prof. Amfo expressed her excitement that the program also focused on developing soft skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration abilities. “To our young girls, each one of you represents a shining example of the power of females in shaping our future,” she said. “We celebrate your achievements and recognize the incredible impact you can make.” Prof. Amfo urged the young girls to use their expertise to uplift and empower those around them, especially young girls who dream of a future in ICT. “Be mentors, be role models, and be advocates for diversity and inclusion,” she encouraged. “The world is now your canvas, and technology is your brush. Together, let us paint a picture of a future filled with possibilities, equality, and boundless opportunities. Embrace your talents with confidence, follow your passions with determination, and never lose sight of the incredible impact you can make.” With her inspiring words, Prof. Nana Aba Appiah Amfo underscored the importance of using technology for the greater good, urging the girls to continue pushing the boundaries of what’s possible and to keep inspiring and supporting each other as the future of ICT and the world. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The ever-controversial, Dr. UN, famed for his unconventional awards schemes, confessed his complete unawareness of Chef Smith’s widely discussed cook-a-thon until social media brought it to his attention. In an interview with an Accra-based tv station, Dr. UN revealed that he first learned about the event through social media tags. "I didn’t even know anything about Chef Smith or the cook-a-thon saga," Dr. UN admitted. "It was only when someone asked me why people were tagging me in discussions about the issue that I decided to investigate." Expressing surprise and curiosity, Dr. UN shared his thoughts on the event and critiqued Chef Smith's approach to achieving a Guinness World Record (GWR). He argued that Chef Smith should have sought his counsel to organize an independent cook-a-thon. "Chef Smith should have independently organized his own cook-a-thon devoid of the GWR accolade," Dr. UN suggested. "Such an approach could have earned him better recognition." Dr. UN elaborated on the type of guidance he could have offered, stating that he would have awarded Chef Smith a citation and ensured a High Commissioner presented the award to enhance credibility. "After the Guinness attempt, they would leave him, but if it was his own brand, he could continue with it and even make it an annual event," Dr. UN explained. The interview has ignited discussions on the significance of branding and strategic planning in the quest for recognition. Dr. UN emphasized the advantages of building a personal brand over depending solely on external accolades, highlighting the potential for sustained and independent success. This unexpected twist in the cook-a-thon narrative has added a layer of intrigue, with many now contemplating the value of personal branding and the role of strategic advice in achieving long-term recognition. Story by: Sarah-Joyce Komenan

Media Personality, Abubakar Ahmed, widely known as Blakk Rasta, has lambasted Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, the running mate for the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the 2024 elections, following his contentious remarks about Ghana’s first president, Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah. Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh made the remarks during a ceremony at Jubilee Park in Kumasi to outdoor him as Running-mate of the party ahead of the election 2024. Blakk Rasta, a staunch defender of Nkrumah's legacy, did not hold back in his condemnation of Prempeh, whom he disparaged as a "fool." He accused the NPP of a longstanding agenda to tarnish Nkrumah’s reputation, citing efforts to depict him negatively in school textbooks and even alleged attempts to desecrate his grave. “This is not the first time this dirty party in power has tried to denigrate Kwame Nkrumah,” he fumed. Tracing the roots of this antagonism to the Busia government, which he claimed halted Nkrumah's free education policy, Blakk Rasta contrasted Nkrumah's visionary leadership with what he views as Akufo-Addo’s failure. “Nana Akufo-Addo is a villain with no achievement in the class of Kwame Nkrumah,” he asserted, criticizing Prempeh’s comparison of the two leaders. Blakk Rasta lambasted Prempeh’s political acumen, suggesting that any politician who undermines Nkrumah’s legacy lacks common sense and risks alienating both domestic and international audiences. He emphasized the enduring influence of Nkrumah, whose name, he argued, is synonymous with Ghana itself. "When people come to Ghana, it is Kwame Nkrumah who leads them here,” he declared. The broadcaster accused the current administration of nepotism and economic mismanagement, arguing that Akufo-Addo’s policies have driven Ghana into dependency on the IMF and World Bank. He contrasted this with Nkrumah’s self-reliance and nation-building efforts, highlighting his investments in education and industrial infrastructure. “Kwame Nkrumah built factories all over the place. One district, one factory is that far,” Blakk Rasta noted, deriding the current administration’s initiatives. Blakk Rasta’s passionate defense underscores the deep reverence many Ghanaians hold for Nkrumah and reflects broader tensions between historical legacies and contemporary political narratives. As the 2024 elections approach, such contentious debates are likely to escalate, spotlighting the enduring impact of Ghana’s founding leaders on its modern political landscape. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Bishop of the Northern Accra Diocese (NAD) of the Methodist Church Ghana, Rt. Reverend Professor, Joseph M.Y. Edusa-Eyison, has called on Christians not to relent in supporting the work of God. He particularly urged members of the Methodist church to always consider donating some of their property to the church for the sustenance of the word. He also appealed to the elderly members of the church to consider allocating some portions of their property in their wills to the church stressing that such good deeds would be remembered years after “their departure from earth.” Rt Rev. Edusa-Eyison made the call during a sermon at the Immanuel Methodist Society at the Airport East Circuit of the Northern Accra Diocese. It formed part of his last pastoral visit to the Circuit as he prepared to bow out of office in September this year marking the end of his 6-year service as Bishop of the Northern Accra Diocese. The clergyman also used the occasion to lay the Foundation Stone for the construction of an estimated GH¢18.5 million multi-purpose Chapel for the Immanuel Methodist Society. The Immanuel Methodist Society was carved out of the Calvary Methodist Church at Adabraka, Accra in 1994 and worshipped for some time at the Association International and Englebert Schools in the Airport Residential Area before it moved to its present abode in the Regimanuel Gray Estate, off the Spintex road. Winning souls Rt Rev. Edusa-Eyison urged the congregation to continually carry out evangelism and discipleship activities to win more souls for Christ with special attention to the development of the youth because they were the future of the Church. He expressed his gratitude to the Airport East Circuit for its support and cooperation during his administration and prayed that the circuit as an organisation would display even more dedication to the in-coming Bishop, Very Rev. Andrew Mbeah-Baiden and the in-coming Lay Chairman, Dr Senyo Adjei for the good of the Diocese. The Superintendent Minister of the Airport East Circuit, Very Rev. Dr Jacob W. French, commended the NAD Bishop for his leadership as the Diocese’s first Bishop and for successfully ensuring that it strived towards being a model for all others. Project The Chairman of the Building Committee of the Immanuel Methodist Society, Kwesi Abbey Sam, said since the building was launched in July 2023, about 55 per cent of work on the first phase had been completed. He said construction of the 1,500-seater complex had been divided into two phases and is expected to be completed in July 2025 adding that the tender cost of the complex was GH¢18.5 million with the first phase estimated at GH¢ 6,739,000.00. In addition, a member of the Building Committee, Godfrey Ewool, said the building had an underground basement with parking for 30 cars, Church Hall, choir vestry, ministry, an infirmary, superintendent minister’s office, sound control/media room, committee rooms, administration office, stewards office, choir and singing band practice rooms among others. Credit: bxtvgh

The Minister of Communications and Digitalisation, Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, has announced that her ministry will actively monitor and track the progress of beneficiaries of the Girls-in-ICT project. Speaking at the climax of a two-day National Girls-in-ICT Day event held at the Cedi Conference Centre, University of Ghana, Madam Ursula Owusu-Ekuful emphasized the importance of sustained support and mentorship for the girls involved in the program. "Today, we had an exciting mentorship session with around 80 mentors who shared their personal experiences and demonstrated the significant impact of IT on their lives" "This interaction moves the program from theoretical instruction to practical examples of women successfully utilizing IT," Owusu-Ekuful said. She highlighted the need for continuous engagement beyond the annual event, proposing a system where mentors can provide ongoing support and guidance to the girls throughout their educational and professional journeys. To achieve this, the minister announced plans to establish a trust fund that will enable continuous monitoring and evaluation of the program's beneficiaries. The trust will be managed independently from the ministry, with its own processes for budgeting, accountability, and progress tracking. "We want to ensure that we can monitor each girl's progress long-term, providing the necessary support to help them succeed," she explained. The trust will seek funding from various sources, including women’s agencies and individual companies, aiming for a sustainable stream of resources. This approach will allow the expansion of the program to reach 9,000 to 10,000 girls annually and deliver training closer to their communities. The ministry also plans to train more teachers to support this expanded initiative, ensuring that the digital skills imparted to the girls are effectively reinforced in their local schools. The sector Minister revealed that to date, 13,981 girls and 1,300 teachers have benefited from the Girls-in-ICT program. Despite this progress, Owusu-Ekuful acknowledged that the current reach is still limited compared to the potential demand. "We need to find ways to provide full access to all interested girls, ensuring they receive the same opportunities and exposure to digital skills," she urged. The minister stressed the importance of early exposure to ICT, targeting primary, upper primary, and junior high school students. By the time they reach senior high school, these students should be more proficient and capable of pursuing advanced digital skills. She also encouraged parents to support their children's interests in STEM fields, noting the vast opportunities available beyond traditional professions like medicine. Background of the Girls-in-ICT Project The Girls-in-ICT initiative, spearheaded by Ghana's Ministry of Communications and Digitalisation, aims to address the gender gap in the technology sector by empowering young girls with essential digital skills. Launched in 2010, the program has grown significantly, impacting thousands of girls across the nation. It offers training in areas such as coding, robotics, and data analytics, preparing participants for future careers in the tech industry. The initiative aligns with global efforts to promote gender equality in technology and foster sustainable economic development through education and skills enhancement. With continued government and private sector support, the Girls-in-ICT project is set to play a crucial role in shaping Ghana's digital future. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Member of Parliament (MP) for Ningo-Prampram Constituency, Sam George has emphasized the critical need for increased female participation in the ICT sector. Speaking at the National Girls-in-ICT Day event organized by the Ministry of Communications and Digitalisation at the Cedi Conference Centre, University of Ghana, he highlighted the unique advantages women bring to technology roles. In an exclusive interview with Thinknewsonline.com, Sam George said "Women inherently possess a better attention to detail than men, which makes them excellent coders and programmers. It's essential we continue to support and grow the number of girls entering the sciences and IT," He credited the continued governmental support for the growth in female participation in these fields, tracing the origins of the initiative to around 2010. George Sam expressed optimism about the future of female ICT education, noting the promising advancements under the Oslo administration. He also highlighted the vision of the Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Mahama’s ambitious “One Million Coders” initiative, which aims to significantly boost the country's IT workforce, integrating seamlessly with existing programs to foster a robust talent pipeline. "President Mahama’s initiative will amplify the efforts of the Ministry of Communication's Girls-in-ICT program, creating a generation of skilled female programmers" "This integrated approach ensures that we not only develop the necessary skills but also provide opportunities for their application," he added. Sharing a personal anecdote, George Sam revealed that his four-year-old daughter has already begun learning coding, illustrating the importance of early exposure to technology. He encouraged parents to nurture their children's interests in ICT, emphasizing the expanding opportunities in the digital job market. "The future will see more digital job opportunities, from coding to operating and improving AI systems. Parents should let their children explore the digital world. The potential is limitless," he advised. Background of Girls-in-ICT Project The Girls-in-ICT initiative, launched by Ghana's Ministry of Communications and Digitalisation, aims to bridge the gender gap in the tech industry by encouraging and equipping young girls with essential ICT skills. Since its inception in 2010, the program has expanded significantly, reaching thousands of girls across the country. It provides training in various digital skills, including coding, robotics, and data analytics, to prepare them for future careers in the tech industry. The initiative aligns with global efforts to promote gender equality in technology and empower women through education and skills development. With continuous support from the government and private sector, the Girls-in-ICT project is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Ghana's digital landscape. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith