The Ministry of Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation (MCDTI) has held a mentorship session for about 1,000 girls undergoing Information and Communication Technology (ICT) training in the Upper West Region to mark the 2025 National Girls-in-ICT Day.

Organised in collaboration with the Ghana Investment Fund for Electronic Communications (GIFEC) and MTN Ghana under the Girls-in-ICT (GIICT) programme, the session sought to inspire the girls’ confidence and interest in pursuing careers in the ICT field.

Female ICT professionals from the region took turns to share their experiences and career journeys to motivate and encourage the participants to overcome challenges and excel in the technology space.

Professor Hamida Darimani, Vice-Chancellor of Dr Hilla Limann Technical University (DHLTU), who chaired the session, commended the initiative, describing it as a powerful tool to empower girls to explore opportunities within the ICT sector.

She noted that the programme provided a platform for the girls to interact with industry experts, network with peers, and gain practical insight into how ICT skills could transform their lives and communities.

Prof. Darimani, also an engineer, praised the Ministry and its partners for their continued efforts since 2012 to bridge the gender gap in ICT through such national initiatives. She urged the participants to take the mentorship seriously.

The mentors encouraged the girls to develop a keen interest in ICT to enable them to become active contributors and leaders in the fast-evolving digital world.

Miss Emilia Naa Adoley Anang, Controller for Retail Experience at MTN Ghana’s Wa office, shared her personal journey of learning ICT skills, stressing that determination and consistent practice were key to her success.

She recounted how, despite not having access to a computer during her training, she remained committed and maximised every opportunity to practice.

“I want you to have the mentality that you can do it. Do not let anything discourage you. Even if you do not have a laptop, never give up. The world is advancing, and you must grow with it,” she advised.

Mrs Rahmaa Issahaq-Pelpuo, a Legal and Regulatory Expert at the National Communications Authority (NCA), encouraged the girls to take full advantage of initiatives like the GIICT programme to realise their potential.

She explained that ICT cuts across all professions and serves as a driving force behind every sector of the economy — including health, business, education, and agriculture.

Other mentors who participated in the session included Ms Musherifa Mohammed, Customer Care representative at MTN Wa; Mrs Nana Esigyan Khim-Burns from Telecel; and Ms Zariatu Tiffere Osman, an ICT enthusiast.

Additional mentors were Ms Rukayat Bakare, Network Operating Centre Support Engineer at Dynamic Data Solutions Ltd; Ms Anisatu Ahmed, a Digital Inclusion Expert; and Ms Diana Aazane, Customer Care representative at AirtelTigo.

The event also featured cultural performances by the Dagaaba Nuoriyeni Cultural Troupe, adding a lively touch to the day’s celebration, which was attended by Members of Parliament, Municipal and District Chief Executives, and Heads of Departments and Agencies.

Source: myghanadaily