Telecel Empowers 100 Girls for 2025 ICT Open Day

Empowering the Next Generation of Women in Technology

Telecel Ghana recently hosted a special event that brought together 100 girls from various primary and junior high schools across the Greater Accra and Ashanti Regions. This gathering was part of the National Girls-in-ICT Open Day initiative, an important step toward encouraging more women to pursue careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). The initiative is aimed at addressing the gender gap in these critical fields by providing young girls with hands-on experience and exposure to technology-driven environments.

The open day was organized as part of a nationwide program focused on fostering inclusivity in STEM. It offered participants the opportunity to explore technology workplaces, interact with professionals, and gain practical insights into various STEM disciplines. This kind of engagement is essential for inspiring young minds and helping them envision themselves in these roles.

The event kicked off with an interactive session featuring an AI-powered talking robot, which greeted the girls and engaged them with questions. This was followed by hands-on workshops where the students worked in teams to assemble simple robots and learn the basics of programming. These activities were not only educational but also fun, allowing the girls to explore their creativity and problem-solving skills.

A key component of the event was the involvement of the Women in Tech group at Telecel Ghana. These professionals mentored the girls, sharing their personal experiences and offering career advice in areas such as data analytics, cybersecurity, digital transformation, engineering, robotics, and digital marketing. Their presence was a powerful reminder that women can excel in these fields and contribute significantly to technological advancements.

Victoria Aidoo, a Digital Transformation Specialist at Telecel Ghana, emphasized the importance of mentorship. “Mentoring these young girls gives them the chance to know the kind of roles that exist in the tech space and make them aware of the possibilities around them,” she said. “I hope these sessions inspire them to pursue STEM courses in school and believe they can succeed because they’ve seen other women thrive in this field.”

The enthusiasm among the participants was evident. Shelly Sakyiwaa from Achimota Basic School shared her passion for cybersecurity and expressed eagerness to learn more about the field after the mentoring session. Similarly, Nkunim Kyerewaa Krankyi from St. Monica’s Junior High School spoke about her renewed career goals. “I will keep on trying and never give up, even if I fail. I will do all I can to achieve my dreams and work in the technology industry,” she said.

Officials from the Ministry of Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation highlighted the significance of such initiatives in building a more inclusive and competitive digital economy in Ghana. According to data from the International Telecommunication Union, women remain underrepresented in STEM fields globally. Programs like Girls in ICT are crucial in challenging stereotypes and encouraging girls to consider careers in these areas.

Augusta Andrews, Director of Legal and External Affairs at Telecel Ghana, expressed hope that the visit would demystify the technology sector for the girls. “Technology is not a boys-only space. With the right guidance and determination, anyone can innovate, lead and succeed in this industry. We believe this interaction will go a long way to spark interest and influence the girls to pursue careers in STEM,” she said.

By the end of the day, the girls left with a clearer understanding of the skills and potential careers available in the technology sector. Telecel Ghana remains committed to creating opportunities for young girls to explore STEM-related fields and support national efforts aimed at promoting diversity in the digital workforce. Through continued engagement and mentorship, the company aims to inspire the next generation of female leaders in technology.