The computer laboratory, housed in a 49-footer steel air-conditioned container, has 22 computers with desks and chairs valued at $31,000.

Role of ICT

Inaugurating the laboratory, the Deputy Upper East Regional Minister, Dr Robert Baba Kuganab-Lem, said the introduction of information and communications technology (ICT) into the country had made significant contributions to socio-economic development. It had created employment and enhanced the country’s integration into the global economy.

He indicated that the facility would help equip the youth with practical computer skills to enable them to become an efficient and employable manpower resource for the country.

Investments in the youth

"Government has over the years invested in creating sustainable job opportunities for the youth to enable them to contribute to the development of the country. It has instituted many policies and programmes for the youth to be equipped with innovative ways of doing things," Dr Kuganab-Lem stated.

The deputy minister commended Thengashep for taking the initiative to equip the youth with computer skills and urged the students to take advantage of the facility to improve their computer knowledge and skills.

Corporate social responsibility

The Chief Executive Officer of Thengashep (Pty) Limited, Mr Ray Farrenkothen, said the facility was part of the corporate social responsibility (CSR) of the company to support the communities in which they worked.

He said the company had provided electricity to 26 communities in the Bongo District under the government’s rural self-help electrification programme.

He mentioned some of the communities as Atiabisi 1&2, Nayrogo  Appubea 1&2, Balugu Apubea, Nayrogo Atosalum, Goo Awaa, Kanga Atansika, Kadare Akunsebisi and Kadare Azangabisi.

The rest are Adaboya, Atampintin, Soe Atampinii Kabre, Soe Sanabisi Akire Kunkua, Apatanga, Anafobisi Saabo, Feo Awiisi, Soe Akanseringa, Soe Tamolga, Soe Yidongo Kabre, Bongo Gorigo,  Ayopia, Amanga and Beo Dusobligo Kasinga.

Mr Farrenkothen said the company planned to provide other deprived schools in the communities with a similar facility.

Thengashep also presented two bicycles to two female students of Dua Junior High School who commute about 10 kilometres daily to school.