In a world where technology increasingly shapes how people learn, work and solve problems, girls in Ghana are being encouraged to take their place in the digital space.
The Ghana Employers’ Association (GEA) has launched its Girls in Tech program to equip girls in junior and senior high schools with practical digital and innovation skills that prepare them for careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).
The programme is being rolled out in partnership with the University of Ghana and the Confederation of Norwegian Enterprise, with support from the Royal Norwegian Embassy.
Responding to Skills Demand in the Future of Work
Speaking at the launch in Accra, the Second Vice President of GEA, Mrs Victoria Hajar, said the initiative is designed to build a new pipeline of female talent for Ghana’s evolving labour market. She noted that the future of work will be shaped by digital transformation, artificial intelligence, advanced manufacturing and data-driven business systems, making it important to expose girls early to these fields.
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“The Girls in Tech programme seeks to ignite curiosity, confidence and creativity in our young girls. This initiative is about building a future where girls do not just participate, but lead,” she said.
Mrs Hajar said the programme will offer mentorship, hands-on learning and exposure to business leaders to ensure participants develop market-ready skills. She encouraged parents, schools and policymakers to support girls to see technology as a natural career path, emphasizing that empowering girls in STEM is an investment in national development and productivity.
Norway Highlights Economic Gains from Gender Inclusion
Norway’s Ambassador to Ghana, John Mikal Kvistad, commended Ghana’s progress on gender equality, including the passage of the Gender Equality Act. Drawing on Norway’s experience, he said increased participation of women in the workforce had boosted Norway’s economy significantly.
“When girls learn tech, entire communities benefit. Gender equality is not only good for society, it strengthens national economies,” he said.
He added that diverse workplaces help drive innovation and productivity, and that Ghana’s efforts to encourage girls in STEM align with global labour market trends.
University of Ghana Commits to Strengthening STEM Pathways
The Vice Chancellor of the University of Ghana, Prof Nana Aba Appiah Amfo, said the university is committed to expanding opportunities that encourage girls to pursue technology-related courses at the tertiary level. She noted that female enrolment remains low in computer science, information technology and engineering, and said mentorship and role models are crucial to changing this.
“For us to achieve meaningful progress, we must work together. Partnerships of this kind allow us to get results faster,” she said, urging the girls participating to make full use of the program.
Building the Next Generation of Digital Leaders
The Girls in Tech programme will be implemented in selected schools, providing structured mentorship, lab-based digital training, innovation challenges and industry exposure. The long-term aim is to build a consistent pipeline of skilled female professionals for Ghana’s digital, financial, energy and manufacturing sectors.
“The world of technology is open to you,” Mrs Hajar told the students. “Your ideas can shape Ghana’s future.”
