By: Benjamin Nii Nai Anyetei
The Deputy Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Mohammed Adams Sukparu, has reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to becoming a hub for digital innovation in Africa, stressing that the country is strategically investing in both infrastructure and people to drive transformation.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 2025 IEEE R8 Africa Students and Young Professionals Congress at the University of Professional Studies, Accra, Mr Sukparu commended IEEE for choosing Ghana as host, describing it as a recognition of the nation’s growing influence in the digital economy.
“This congress is not just an event; it is a platform for collaboration, innovation, and the shared vision of empowering Africa’s next generation of leaders,” he said.
The Deputy Minister emphasised that Africa’s youthful population, if empowered with skills in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), could drive global change.
“Nations that prioritise STEM are today at the forefront of innovation, economic growth, and sustainable development. Africa must seize this moment, because we are rich in talent, creativity, and youthful energy,” he noted.
He highlighted emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, data science, blockchain, cloud computing, and cybersecurity as areas where Africa must not lag but rather take the lead in the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
He outlined Ghana’s Digital Ghana Agenda, which seeks to build a resilient and inclusive economy. He pointed to initiatives including broadband expansion, support for local tech startups, robust cybersecurity, and e-government platforms.
“Bold components of this agenda are already underway, such as expanding last-mile connectivity in rural communities and the launch of a $1 billion Ghana–UAE Innovation and Technology Hub that will host the African headquarters of leading global firms,” he revealed.
Central to Ghana’s strategy, the Deputy Minister said, is investment in human capital. He announced that the government is rolling out the One Million Coders Programme, aimed at equipping Ghanaians—particularly youth and women—with skills in coding, AI, machine learning, and emerging technologies.
“A core goal of this vision is to position Ghana as the AI Hub of West Africa, supported by strategic investments, global partnerships, and policies promoting responsible AI across critical sectors like AgriTech and HealthTech,” he added.
Sukparu praised IEEE’s long-standing role in nurturing innovation and professional development across Africa.
“IEEE has proven to be a global partner in progress, and its support for African students and young professionals reflects a deep commitment to capacity building and global collaboration,” he said.
He urged participants at the congress to seize the opportunity to network, innovate, and collaborate.
“The future of Africa rests in your hands as innovators, entrepreneurs, policymakers, and changemakers who will define the continent’s destiny through the power of STEM,” he concluded.
