The Minister for Education and Member of Parliament for Tamale South, Haruna Iddrisu, has underscored the critical role of digital skills in nation-building, urging young people to embrace technology as a tool for personal growth and national development.
He made the remarks in Tamale during the launch of a new Digital Initiative designed to empower the youth to explore opportunities in the digital economy. The programme aims to create an enabling environment for digital innovation and entrepreneurship while providing employment pathways for young Ghanaians.
Held under the theme “Igniting Innovation Through Digital Mastery,” the initiative forms part of government’s broader commitment to strengthening digital literacy, innovation, and competitiveness among the next generation.
Haruna Iddrisu stressed that technology has become inseparable from everyday life and remains essential to learning, employment, and global competitiveness. He noted that the initiative will ensure Ghanaian youth are equipped with the skills needed to thrive in a digital-driven global market, adding that his focus as a public servant is to leave a legacy of empowerment and impact.
“We have shifted into a truly digital world. Technology influences how we live, learn and work. This initiative ensures our youth have the skills needed to compete globally,” he said, encouraging students to explore emerging fields such as artificial intelligence and digital medical applications.
An IT expert and lecturer at Tamale Technical University, Prof. Abdul Wahab, also advised young people to take artificial intelligence seriously. He cautioned that technology will replace individuals who fail to adapt and develop required competencies.
“If you don’t master AI, you will be left behind,” he stressed, explaining that while AI can support workers, those without the skills to utilise it risk being replaced.
The Digital Initiative is expected to provide training, mentorship and opportunities for youth-led innovation, as stakeholders push to position Northern Ghana as a competitive contributor to the national digital economy.
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