Communication Minister Climaxes Girls-in-ICT 2025 Celebration in Ho, Volta Region
The Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation, Hon. Samuel Nartey George (MP), has reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to inclusive digital transformation at the climax of the 2025 Girls-in-ICT celebrations held at the University of Health and Allied Sciences ( UHAS) in Ho, Volta Region.
Speaking yesterday at UHAS Cedi Auditorium, the Minister described the initiative as a defining moment for Ghana’s digital future, especially for girls and young women, adding that the day marks a proud and defining moment for the girls while acknowledging the rich cultural display and hospitality of Ho, the “oxygen city.”
Underscoring the urgency of bridging the gender digital divide, the Minister cited International Telecommunication Union (ITU) statistics showing 189 million fewer women than men online globally.
According to him, connectivity alone does not translate to transformation, hence, “we must ensure accessibility, affordability and security.”
Hon. Nartey George used the opportunity to announce enhanced data value packages across all telecom operators starting July 1, 2025, including:
1. Telecel: GH₵400 now gives 250GB instead of 190GB.
2. AirtelTigo: GH₵399 now offers 235GB instead of 192GB.
3. MTN: GH₵399 now provides 104GB, up from 92GB.
The Minister also revealed spectrum allocations to MTN and Telecel to improve network quality, especially in regions like Volta, where service concerns had been officially raised by the Regional Minister, Hon. James Gunu.
He noted that telecom operators have until December 31, 2025, to meet new service benchmarks or face heavy sanctions.
Looking to long-term digital empowerment, he said the introduction of 15 new ICT-related bills in the next sitting of Parliament will align Ghana’s digital policies with international standards.
He also highlighted progress under the One Million Coders Programme, launched by former President John Dramani Mahama, aimed at equipping one million youth with advanced digital skills. So far, 850 youth have been trained in Accra, Kumasi, Bolgatanga, and Sunyani.
The Volta Regional Minister, Hon. James Gunu, called for sustained investment and broad stakeholder collaboration to empower girls through digital skills for national development.
Hon. Gunu described the event as a celebration of dedication, learning, and growth, emphasizing the transformative potential of the initiative for the beneficiaries in the region.
He thanked the Minister for MOCDTI and its partners for bringing the programme to the Volta Region, noting that over 3,000 girls and 300 ICT/STEM teachers across three regions stand to benefit this year from training in web development, cybersecurity, game development, animation, and coding.
The Minister reaffirmed his personal commitment, stating that he had closely monitored the progress of the initiative and pledged the continued support of the Volta Regional Coordinating Council.
He urged parents and teachers to continue nurturing the aspirations of girls and congratulated the 100 best performers who received laptops as a tool for further exploration and innovation in ICT.
“Let us continue to work together to build a future where every girl has the opportunity to shine in the digital age,” he said.
The Chairperson, Togbe Ayim Diokoto II, who delivered a speech on behalf of the Agbogbomefia of Asogli State, His Royal Majesty Togbe Afede XIV, underscored the importance of bridging the gender digital divide, urging all stakeholders, government, private sector, educators, and parents to actively support girls’ participation in ICT.
He stressed that digital skills are essential for competitiveness in today’s job market and that investing in girls’ ICT education is both an economic and social imperative.
The Chairman called on stakeholders to engage actively, share expertise, and champion the cause to ensure the programme’s objectives are met.
He reiterated that the Girls-In-ICT initiative is inspired by international best practices and contributes directly to achieving Sustainable Development Goals on quality education and gender equality.
Togbe Diokoto II, encouraged the awardees to see their new laptops not just as prizes, but as gateways to innovation and self-empowerment and urged all girls to seize the opportunity to become creators and leaders in the digital space.
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