DigiTech Academy is Telecel Ghana Foundation’s 12-week intensive training programme in robotics, Internet of Things (IoT), programming and digital skills. The immersive learning sessions run concurrently alongside the regular Ghana Education Services (GES) curriculum in selected upper primary and junior high schools nationwide.

The showcase, held at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology as part of the telco’s Ashanti Month celebrations, saw DigiTech Academy graduates present over a dozen projects, ranging from smart ballot boxes, automated class attendance system, robotic produce harvester to interactive web applications that address malnutrition, bullying, language barriers and mental health decline.

Speaking at the project showcase, Head of Foundation, Sustainability and External Communications at Telecel Ghana, Rita Agyeiwaa Rockson was impressed with the level of innovation on display by the young learners.

“For young people who barely had any knowledge of technology to build these innovative projects after 12 weeks of training shows that when young talents are given opportunities and right tools, they can create, innovate, and shape a better Ghana,” Rita said. “We are also proud that 70% of our learners are girls as this will help to bridge the gender gap in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).”

The DigiTech Academy exhibition brought together the telco’s Senior Management Team, pupils from participatory schools, STEM educators, parents, and local government representatives in education, who collectively expressed admiration for the depth and creativity of the projects on display.

Adwoa Kesewaa Gaisie of the Ejisu Municipal Directorate of Education said that DigiTech Academy was unlocking the potential of pupils in the municipality.

“We have observed the increase in confidence of pupils in learning since the training programme began. They are more eager to explore STEM projects to solve problems, and I encourage each of you to keep that curiosity for STEM alive,” she said.

DigiTech Academy, which forms part of the Foundation’s Connected Learning pillar, is targeted at bridging the digital education gap through training and access to digital tools.

The three participating schools in the exhibition are Ejisu M/A Experimental School, St. Anthony’s R/C Model School and Ejisu Presbyterian Model School.

One of the participants, Lordina Tawiah, said the training programme exposed her to possible career opportunities in STEM and sparked her interest in solving problems using technology.

“This programme has shown me the power of technology in making life better and simpler. I hope DigiTech Academy continues so many young people, especially girls, can discover their talents and use it to make a positive difference in our society,” Lordina added.