ICT Training for Teachers In Ghana’s Volta Region Kicks Off

Ghana’s Volta Region has officially launched a week-long Training of Trainers (ToT) workshop as part of the national “Girls in ICT” initiative, with 100 ICT teachers selected across the region undergoing intensive digital skills training at Adonai University, Ho.

The opening ceremony, held on Monday, brought together key dignitaries, including regional education authorities, Ministry officials, and representatives from partner agencies. The initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations (MoCDTI), in collaboration with GIFEC, Kofi Annan Centre of Excellence in ICT (KACE), and other stakeholders, aims to close the digital gender gap and inspire more girls to pursue careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).
In a keynote address delivered on behalf of the Hon. Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Mr. Austin Hessin, Director of PPBME, emphasized the urgency of equipping young women with critical ICT skills.

“Despite improvements in access and affordability, a wide digital gender gap persists. Globally, nearly 250 million more men are online than women,” he noted, citing the International Telecommunication Union’s 2023 Strategic Report.
He praised the “Girls in ICT” initiative as a vital intervention, stating that over 14,981 girls and 1,192 teachers have already benefitted from the program across the country.

Highlighting Ghana’s commitment to digital transformation, Mr. Hessin said the Ministry envisions a future where young Ghanaians become creators, not just consumers, of digital technologies.

“This programme is more than training; it is a transformational agenda that shapes futures. Our goal is to build a generation that leads innovation, not one left behind by it,” he added.

Speaking on behalf of the Volta Regional Minister, Mr. Augustus Awity, Chief Director of the Volta Regional Coordinating Council, aligned the initiative with national education priorities outlined in the 2025 Budget.

“With over GH¢1.2 billion allocated for teacher training, this initiative supports the government’s drive to enhance learning outcomes, especially through STEM and digital literacy,” Mr. Awity stated.

He called on participating teachers to approach the workshop with dedication and to return to their districts prepared to cascade the training to the 1,000 girls selected from 18 constituencies across the region.

“This training begins a journey of transformation for thousands of girls. You are the vanguards of this educational revolution,” he told the participants.

Mr. Francis Yao Agbemadi, Volta Regional Director of Education, described the training as a critical response to the digital disadvantage facing young women in Ghana.

“Girls in Ghana are less likely to access mobile internet compared to the global average. This gap limits their educational and economic opportunities,” he explained.

He reiterated the programme’s aim of creating safe, supportive environments that boost girls’ confidence and inspire them to envision futures in STEM.

The training, facilitated by experts from KACE, runs from 2nd to 6th June, and focuses on practical ICT knowledge and instructional techniques for teachers. The sessions will prepare participants to mentor and deliver digital training to girls in their communities.
The ceremony concluded with a heartfelt appreciation to sponsors MTN Ghana and American Towers Corporation, as well as the local planning committee and MMDCEs for their commitment and support.

“Let us put in our best efforts, as if we are working for God,” Mr. Hessin said in a passionate closing, encouraging teachers to take pride in the life-changing impact they will have.
The “Girls in ICT” initiative remains a bold national commitment to inclusivity, innovation, and the empowerment of Ghana’s future digital leaders.