Mamfe: The Amy Butler Foundation, in collaboration with Foundation Light and EveryUni, has successfully launched a youth mentorship programme for students at Mamfe in the Eastern Region. The initiative also included the inauguration of a new Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Training Centre at the Mamfe Apostolic School Complex.
According to Ghana News Agency, the programme, themed 'Transforming Your Thinking, Transforming Your Future,' aims to equip the students with the mindset, skills, and digital tools necessary for pursuing their educational and career aspirations. The focus is on fostering a growth mindset, resilience, self-confidence, and emotional self-awareness, while encouraging students to develop actionable plans for achieving their long-term goals.
The three organisations have also commissioned a well-equipped ICT Training Centre to enhance access to digital learning and artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled educational resources for the local students. This initiative is expected to significantly improve the community's access to technology and digital education.
Madam Ayeshia Quainoo-Tefera, President and Founder of the Amy Butler Foundation, expressed that her passion for empowering young people to realise their full potential inspired the mentorship initiative. She emphasized the profound impact that exposure to positive role models and practical guidance can have on students' futures. 'A word and a presence can change the trajectory of somebody's life,' she remarked, urging students to cultivate positive thoughts, as these influence their choices, actions, and ultimately their destiny.
Regarding the ICT Centre, Madam Quainoo-Tefera explained that the project aims to provide students with access to computers, the internet, and emerging technologies. The three organisations have pooled their resources to supply the infrastructure, equipment, and training required to help students gain digital skills and take advantage of opportunities available through technology.
Mr. Wong Cheuk Sum, Founder of EveryUni, highlighted the organisation's mission to expand access to technology and AI education to at least 10,000 people in developing countries. He pointed out that digital literacy disparities and limited computer access remain significant barriers to technology adoption among youth. To tackle this, EveryUni has developed an online learning platform accessible through the ICT Centre, enabling many students to share available computers while benefiting from AI-assisted learning. 'The biggest challenge is access, and this ICT Centre provides a practical solution for students to continue learning even after today's programme,' he stated.
Madam Nur-Jahan, Founder of Foundation Light, expressed belief in the existence of talent everywhere, while acknowledging the scarcity of opportunities. She explained that the partnership aims to bridge this gap by combining mentorship with technological access, enabling students to continuously develop their skills. 'Our goal is to equip the children and teachers so that learning continues even after we leave,' she added.
Nana Offei Agyentutu, Bamuhene of Mamfe, extended his gratitude to the three organisations for their support in advancing education in the community. He encouraged students to make the most of the mentorship lessons and the ICT facility, advising, 'Stay away from drugs, concentrate on your books. Learn hard, pray hard.'