Accra, Oct. 29, GNA – Huawei Technologies Ghana, in collaboration with the Ministry of Communications and Digitalisation, has launched the first all-Girls edition of its Corporate Social Responsibility Programme, “Seeds for the Future.”
The programme is aimed at developing local skilled Information Communication Technology talents, enhancing knowledge transfer and promoting a greater understanding of the telecommunications sector.
It is also to bridge the communication gap between countries and train 60 ladies across various Universities in Ghana during 2021.
The edition was on the theme: “Inspiring Global Talent to Shape the Future.”
Madam Ama Pomaa Boateng, Deputy Minister of Communications and Digitalisation, speaking at the virtual launch, said, “This is a very good time for Ladies in ICT and Huawei dedicating their Programme to the Ministry’s Girls in ICT initiative was a step in the right direction.
She said the Ministry shall not relent in its efforts to continue to empower women in the STEM ecosystem as they continue to prove through our activities.
“The Ministry is very keen on digitalization and we believe one of the surest ways to accelerate the process to propel Ghana into a digital economy is through ICT skill training and capacity building,” she said.
The Minister said it was, therefore, important that the government nurture young ICT talents to give the nation a more formidable future while remaining competitive on the global market.
She advised the participating ladies to remain focused during the programme while representing Ghana as Ambassadors.
“My advice to you is to go all out and grasp every bit of this opportunity by fully immersing yourselves in the è and training as well as taking part in all the activities,” she said.
The Minister commended Huawei for their contribution towards the development of the ICT sector in Ghana.
Mr Tommy Zhou, the Managing Director for Huawei Ghana, underscored the importance of bridging the gender gap in technology.
He said, “The barriers to women accessing and having careers in the tech industry must be broken down. This needs to start at the grassroots level, through education and training, giving girls and young women the opportunities and skills to enter the tech world.”
“At Huawei, we believe that technology innovation can be led by women, and technology in its end can empower women. Huawei’s female employees have been playing a unique role and making important contributions to the company. Many of them have distinguished themselves and become outstanding leaders,” he added.
Mr LU Kun, the Chinese Ambassador to Ghana, commended Huawei for their Social Contributions aimed at bridging the digital divide.
He commended the government’s efforts in creating an enabling and business-friendly environment for Chinese companies like Huawei to thrive.
This year’s Programme is comprised of an intensive eight-days virtual training, scheduled from October 25 to November 4, 2021, to introduce students to the latest courses like 5G, Artificial Intelligence, Cloud, Big Data and Internet of Things.
It is to build their leadership capacity in courses like Strategic leadership and Sustainability and Business Leadership.
As part of this year’s programme, beneficiaries will be grouped to embark on a “Tech4Good” project after being equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge in the study of new technologies, to develop a solution for societal and environmental problems.
Beneficiaries will also get the opportunity to experience the rich Chinese culture which includes a live interactive visit to the Great Wall and other historic sites.
An ICT mentorship session will also be organized where female industry experts in the STEM field will be invited to share their experiences with beneficiaries.
After the programme, awards will be given to the Best Tech4Good Project group, Top 10 excellent Students, Best Group members and outstanding students, among others.
This year 3,500 global talents are expected to take part in the programme from around 120 countries and regions.
GNA