By Emmanuel AKOMEA
The Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications has called for more information communication technology (ICT) centers across the country to help students take advantage of the numerous opportunities technology presents.
The Managing Director of the Chamber, Dr. Ken Ashigbey, stressed the need to set up ICT centers in districts and villages β providing students with an opportunity to develop their ICT skills.
βWe recognize the need for infrastructure and ongoing support for the communities we work with. We support the establishment of ICT centers in districts and villages where students can continue to develop their skills. Furthermore, we aim to work with government authorities to facilitate this process,” he noted.
This was said during a Coding Caravan event organized by the Chamber in partnership with the Institute of lCT Professionals Ghana (IPGH) for primary school students in the South Tongu area of ββthe Volta Region.
The program included a variety of activities designed to introduce students, from upper primary to high school (JHS) level, to the fundamentals of coding and animation using the Scratch application software, 3D design using Tinkertoys and an introduction to loT through hands on experience with an Arduino kit to build a traffic light system.
Emphasizing the need to create ICT centers, Dr. Ashigbey said a one-day awareness program would not be enough to achieve his goals. Hence, the ICT facilities available will enable the students to have continuous practice.
Speaking about the initiative’s long-term goals, the CEO said: “Our long-term goal is to see coding education integrated into the national curriculum, with the hope that it will become a profitable trade in the future.”
The Chamber’s advocacy for the creation of more ICT centers and the integration of coding education into the national curriculum reflects a proactive approach to addressing the growing demand for digital skills in Ghana.
Executive Director-IIPG, David Gowu speaking at the program expressed his excitement saying, βThis year Coding Carnival is back on the road and we are excited to be a part of it. We have already made significant progress and are excited about the nationwide reach of this initiative. Given the right opportunities and exposure, young people have the potential to create ground-breaking innovations that can leave a lasting impact.
βOur goal is to expand and strengthen this program by bringing in more partners and increasing our impact. So far, we have introduced over 3,000 young people to the Coding Carnival with the ultimate goal of creating coding clubs in schools, enabling students to participate in coding competitions, promoting innovation and ultimately creating solutions that can benefit our country and Africa. whole.”
He added that resources and funding are limiting factors for the development of the program, but they are focusing on raising awareness through a comprehensive roadshow that will tour major cities, towns and villages across the country, culminating in the northernmost region.
On sustainability, Mr Gowu mentioned training seminars for teachers who have access to computers and school laboratories provided by the government. The goal is to equip these educators with the necessary skills and knowledge to integrate coding into their teaching practices.
Chief Sales Officer-CSquared β program sponsor, Stephen Gefli, also added that the sponsorship is in line with the C-Serve project which focuses on giving back to the society. therefore working with the Chamber to ensure its success.
He expressed the organization’s commitment to continue support so that the initiative reaches more communities.