Nokia, a global technology leader, has issued a compelling call for greater female representation within Ghana’s burgeoning technology sector, emphasizing the critical importance of bolstering female participation in digital skills development. The initiative, spearheaded by Human Resources Manager Brepo Akrofi Asiedu, underscores a strategic commitment to capitalizing on the increasing demand for skilled professionals in the digital age. The call comes amidst a recent observation that female participation in the initial cohort of the Plan International Ghana’s Digital Skills Project had dipped, prompting Nokia to proactively reassess its strategy. As stated by Asiedu, ‘We were encouraged by the initial cohort of female participants, but unfortunately, we saw a significant drop in the second cohort,’ highlighting a concern about maintaining momentum. ‘We hope to see more women coming on board in the future,’ she affirmed, stressing that the goal isn’t merely to increase female numbers but to ensure their presence to benefit from the diverse opportunities offered within the technology landscape. Nokia, a key supporter of the project, has publicly stated its willingness to continue providing support for young people to develop digital skills and translate them into practical solutions and entrepreneurial ventures. The project, a three-year initiative initiated by Plan International Ghana, aims to equip 360 young individuals with the necessary skills and practical experience to enhance their employability and entrepreneurial prospects. The Digital Skills Project is designed to cultivate a skilled workforce, aligning educational initiatives with real-world challenges and fostering innovation. As the project extends into subsequent cohorts, Nokia reaffirms its dedication to nurturing and empowering young women through increased opportunities and support. The initiative is expected to conclude in 2027, with Nokia emphasizing its commitment to sustaining its impact and encouraging further engagement with the talent pool it’s cultivating. The project’s success is predicated on the belief that women’s contributions are invaluable, offering unique perspectives and driving progress across various sectors. Specifically, the AMBU application, developed by a team comprised of three women, provides a compelling example of this. This emergency response system, utilizing an AI agent, allows users to quickly trigger an alert with critical information, demonstrating the practical applications of technology even for those outside of traditional IT roles. Furthermore, the program has fostered deeper understanding of programming languages, systems, and databases, providing a platform for hands-on experience in areas like health technology. As Susan, a team member of the initial cohort, explained, ‘IT is for everyone, not just males. It is for females and males. We are here to break the barriers. Even what the men can’t do, we can do it,’ highlighting a crucial shift in perspective. Nokia views this project as a demonstration of value creation through providing practical experience and transforming knowledge into solutions. The continued success of the Digital Skills Project is inextricably linked to Nokia’s commitment to providing opportunities for young people to gain practical experience and capitalize on the support and resources available to them. The project’s impact will extend beyond the initial cohort, with plans to broaden its reach and impact across the country, solidifying Nokia’s position as a champion of youth development within Ghana’s technological landscape.”’”””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””
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Source: Adom Online
