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The Minister of Communication and Digitalization, Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, says the government has been phenomenal in its bid to take Ghana to the next level of digital transformation.
She said the digitalization agenda aimed at accelerating the country’s development through the youth has been remarkable and apt.
Madam Owusu-Ekuful remarked on Thursday, August 8, 2024, at the Accra City Hotel during the finals of the 2024 Ms. Geek Competition that aimed at encouraging and empowering young girls in Ghana to pursue careers in technology.
The project provided training, mentorship, and a platform to showcase innovative tech solutions.
A total of 66 applications from across the country were received. Subsequently, 15 best ICT solutions were shortlisted after which 10 made it to the grand finale.
Bottozah Biana Bubune, a 21-year-old level 300 student from the University of Mines and Technology (UMaT), Tarkwa emerged as the overall winner of the competition.
Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, the Minister for Communications and Digitalisation in her initial speech, said the event “holds a special place in our hearts as it illustrates our remarkable strides in ICT and digital innovation, particularly among girls and young women in Ghana.”
Touching on Ms Geek Ghana 2024, the minister said on the day of the competition’s launch she contended the intersection of technology and gender empowerment as the competition has the potential to play a vital role in gender equality in the technology industry.
“We believe that women have the power to shape the future of technology and Government is committed to providing a platform for them to do so,” She added.
Madam Ursula Owusu noted “So today, we will celebrate not just a contest but a movement that transcends borders, challenges norms, and empowers women in technology.
As we stand at the threshold of a digital revolution, we acknowledge that gender equality is not merely an aspirational goal but a fundamental necessity. Guided by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 5, which aims to achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls, we are committed to this course.”
She continued that initiatives such as Ms. Geek Ghana serve as the country’s compass and direct towards a future where every girl, young lady, or woman is afforded a seat at the technology table.
“This was a clear sign that the women and the young girls of this generation are ready to embrace the new narrative and paradigm shift that proves that to be a woman goes beyond beauty,” the honorable minister said further.
The minister who doubles as the Member of Parliament for Ablekuma West used the occasion and urged Ghanaians to continue supporting and inspiring each other as the government strive towards a society where everyone, regardless of gender, can excel and make a difference.
“Let us build a future where gender is no barrier, technology knows no bounds, and every girl’s dream becomes a reality.”
She cautioned the finalists together with the 66 applicants not to relent on their push but rather embrace challenges, seek new opportunities, and never stop learning because their passion and determination will be the driving force behind their success story.
The minister further acknowledged the benevolent sponsors for their support, expressing that their dedication towards investing in the dreams of these young girls makes them unsung heroes behind the Ms. Geek Ghana competition.
“Your commitment to this cause has made this event a success. I take this opportunity to express our gratitude and call for even more support to extend our reach as we continue to empower and uplift our girls across the country.”
