First cohort of pupils graduate from Telecel digitech academy

After twelve weeks of hands-on learning, 700 students have completed their training. They came from 38 schools across six regions. This training was part of the Telecel Digitech Academy initiative. It was organized by the Telecel Ghana Foundation, Mingo Foundation, and Asustem Robotics.

The program ran alongside the regular Ghana Education Service (GES) curriculum. Its goal is to equip junior high school pupils with practical tech skills. Selected schools in Greater Accra, Volta, Ashanti, North East, Bono East, and Western Regions participated.

Expert facilitators led weekly after-school sessions for the students. They guided pupils through activities to enhance their tech skills. Students developed devices that address real-life problems.

The program concluded with regional ceremonies where students showcased their projects. Innovations included smart waste bins and automated rail gates. Other projects were smart spectacles for the visually impaired and water monitoring solutions.

At the Greater Accra ceremony, Dr. Stella Agyenim-Boateng spoke about the Academy's impact. She noted it prepares students for a future driven by technology and innovation. Three student teams demonstrated prototypes that tackle flooding and data measurement issues.

Bernice Ofori praised the Academy for its inclusivity in STEM education. She highlighted its role in narrowing the gender gap in these fields. “The structured approach engaged our young learners effectively,” she said.

Rita Agyeiwaa Rockson emphasized bridging the digital divide through this program. She believes Ghanaian children deserve equal opportunities in STEM education as those in developed nations.

She announced plans to expand to 1,000 students across ten regions next year. The Academy aims to foster collaboration to reach more young people.

In addition to technical skills, students gained essential life skills like teamwork and resilience. Standout students were recognized for their exceptional performance at the ceremonies.

Adalia Agyeman Duah shared her experience of building a robot through the Academy’s training. “This has given me confidence as I pursue my dream of becoming a marine engineer,” she said.

Plans are underway to introduce advanced modules next term and expand further into more schools. The Telecel Digitech Academy is becoming a key player in Ghana’s educational innovation journey.

The closing ceremony brought together learners, GES officials, and dignitaries to celebrate success and future promise.