Tema: The Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications, in collaboration with the Ghana Education Service (GES), has launched TechEmpower GH, a rebranded digital skills initiative aimed at equipping young learners with future-ready technology and STEM skills.
According to Ghana News Agency, the initiative, which evolved from the Chamber's annual Coding Caravan programme, was inaugurated through an interactive robotics learning workshop for about 100 upper primary and junior high school pupils of Rosharon Montessori School in Tema Community 12. The workshop, powered by Helios Towers Ghana and facilitated by the Mingo Foundation, provided pupils with hands-on experience in designing, building, and programming robots while developing critical thinking, creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.
Led by Mr. Enoch Abban, a facilitator from the Mingo Foundation, the session focused on practical engagement, allowing students to actively design, build, and activate their own robots, moving beyond theoretical learning to experience the mechanics of technology firsthand. Ms. Sylvia Owusu-Ankomah, Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications, stated that the initiative formed part of activities marking the Chamber's 15th anniversary and reflected its commitment to bridging Ghana's digital skills gap.
Ms. Owusu-Ankomah emphasized the importance of engaging children early, helping them understand the basics of telecommunications and how technology can enhance their coding and robotics capabilities. Over the past five years, the Chamber has used the Coding Caravan programme to introduce thousands of students in underserved communities to foundational digital skills, including coding, animation, Internet of Things (IoT), and 3D design. She stated that TechEmpower GH would build on that foundation by expanding opportunities for young people to explore emerging technologies and prepare for future careers in science and technology.
Mrs. Dinah Nortey, Executive Director of the Mingo Foundation, highlighted the benefits of robotics education, which provides students with practical exposure to technology. Mr. Kweku Frempong, Chief Executive Officer of Helios Towers Ghana, urged students to take Information and Communication Technology (ICT) education seriously, noting the transformative impact of technology and artificial intelligence on various sectors of the economy. He remarked, "There is no future without digitisation."
Ms. Bernice Ofori, Tema Metropolitan Director of Education, said the Ghana Education Service was prioritising STEM education and establishing more STEM schools to prepare young people for the demands of a technology-driven world. She noted that exposing pupils to coding and robotics at an early age would help build a generation capable of driving innovation and national development. Mr. Justice Ackah, Head of Rosharon Montessori School, welcomed the initiative and encouraged students to take advantage of the opportunity, highlighting that robotics education not only involves learning technology but also developing skills to shape the future.