The Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George (MP), has reaffirmed the country’s commitment to inclusive digital transformation at the grand climax of the 2025 Girls-in-ICT celebrations, held at the University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS) in Ho, Volta Region.
The Minister described the National Girls-in-ICT Climax as a defining moment in Ghana’s digital journey, particularly for girls and young women.
He applauded the rich cultural display and warm hospitality of Ho, describing the city as the “oxygen city” and a fitting host for such a forward-looking national event.
He emphasized the urgency of bridging the gender digital divide, citing International Telecommunication Union (ITU) statistics that reveal 189 million fewer women than men are currently online globally.
The Minister stressed the need for digital inclusion through accessibility, affordability, and security.
As part of new policy measures to address these issues, he announced improved data packages from telecom operators beginning July 1, 2025. Notable changes include: Telecel offering 250GB for GH₵400 (up from 190GB), AirtelTigo now providing 235GB for GH₵399 (up from 192GB), and MTN increasing its GH₵399 bundle from 92GB to 104GB.
Additionally, spectrum allocations have been made to MTN and Telecel to improve service quality, particularly in regions such as Volta, where the issue had been formally raised by the Volta Regional Minister.
The Minister also announced that 15 new ICT-related bills will be introduced in Parliament to better align Ghana’s digital governance framework with international standards.
He further stated significant the progress chalked under the One Million Coders Programme, launched under former President John Mahama, with 850 youth already trained in Accra, Kumasi, Bolgatanga, and Sunyani.
The Volta Regional Minister, James Gunu, hailed the initiative as a powerful tool for transformation, describing it as a celebration of learning and empowerment.
He thanked the Ministry and its partners for choosing the Volta Region as host and revealed that over 3,000 girls and 300 ICT/STEM teachers across three regions would benefit this year through training in key digital skills such as web development, animation, coding, cybersecurity, and game development.
Mr Gunu reaffirmed his personal commitment to the cause and pledged the continued support of the Volta Regional Coordinating Council.
He congratulated the 100 best-performing girls who received laptops, encouraging them to pursue their digital dreams.
In a message delivered on behalf of the Agbogbomefia of Asogli State, His Royal Majesty Togbe Afede XIV, Togbe Ayim Adzokoto II emphasized the economic and social importance of bridging the gender digital divide.
He called on all stakeholders government, private sector, educators, and parents to champion girls’ inclusion in ICT, describing the initiative as aligned with global best practices and key to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals on quality education and gender equality.
He urged awardees to see their laptops not merely as prizes, but as tools for innovation and empowerment, encouraging all girls to become creators and leaders in the digital age.
