'We’re committed to bridging digital literacy skills gap'- ALX Country Manager

ALX Ghana is committed to improving digital literacy in the country. They plan to equip about 150,000 youth with digital skills this year. This includes young people from rural communities.

Nana Darko Asiedu, the Country Manager, made this announcement at the Youth and Tech Dialogue (YTD). This event brought together industry leaders, educators, and young innovators. The theme was “Unlocking Youth Potential for Ghana’s Digital Transformation.”

“At ALX, we believe in teaching digital skills early,” he said. “This year, we will focus on high school graduates and rural areas.”

Mr. Asiedu emphasized the importance of YTD. He noted that it unites key players in Ghana’s technology ecosystem. It also showcases how technology impacts youth development.

“Many players were working separately,” he explained. “YTD brings them together to highlight technology's power in transforming lives.”

As YTD host, ALX showcased its talents as panelists and discussion participants. This aimed to drive important industry conversations.

When asked about transitioning youth from consumers to creators, Mr. Asiedu was optimistic. He stated that Ghana’s digital market is set for growth.

He added, “We’ve seen significant progress over the past five years.” He believes the ecosystem will scale up rapidly.

Professor Fred McBagonluri from Academic City University College urged youth to become digital creators. He stressed that they should not just be consumers of technology.

“The world is moving towards a digital future,” he said. “Ghana’s youth must actively participate in this transformation.”

In his keynote address, Prof. McBagonluri highlighted young people's role in Ghana's digital revolution.

“Our greatest asset is our youth's energy and creativity,” he remarked. Over 60% of Ghana’s population is under 25 years old.

He acknowledged their potential but stressed the need for support and capacity building. He advocated for integrating coding into basic education and expanding access to tech hubs.

Prof. McBagonluri also called for affordable internet access and improved infrastructure in schools and communities.

He urged stakeholders to include strategies for youth empowerment in Ghana’s national development plan.

“Building a transformative digital revolution is a national mission,” he stated. The government must lead this effort with support from private sectors and educational institutions.

A highlight of YTD was a panel discussion titled "Tech Forward: Building a Collaborative Youth and Tech Ecosystem." Panelists included Dr. Vandyck Lomotey from Generations Ghana and Constance Swaniker from Design Technology Institute.

They discussed collaboration's role in driving digital transformation and bridging the skills gap for young innovators.

Organized by ALX, YTD aims to become an annual event promoting youth participation in Ghana’s digital journey.