Launch of National ICT Week and World Technology Forum

The 8th to 9th of August 2023 marked a significant milestone in Ghana’s journey towards a digitally empowered future as the National Information Technology Agency (NITA) inaugurated the National ICT Week and World Technology Forum under the theme “Empowering Digital Transformation for Sustainable Development,” which highlights the critical role of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in driving innovation, economic growth, and sustainability in today’s interconnected world.

This event, held at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA), was a convergence of members of parliament, chief directors, board members of NITA, IT heads of government agencies, private sector ICT-based associations, tech enthusiasts, entrepreneurs, academics, policymakers, industry experts, industry partners and the general public. Among the esteemed partners of NITA at the launch was Smart Infraco, a leading organization in digital infrastructure.

The idea of the National ICT Week according to the Director General of NITA, Richard Okyere-Ofosu, is “to create an environment particularly for academia, private sector, public sector to come together to unearth innovations within our academic institutions and give them the proper opportunity for others to see what has been developed which is innovation within Ghana and the ingenuity of Ghanaians to actually solve our own problems”.

The launch was also an endorsement and introduction of the World Technology Forum which is a brainchild of the Chartered Institute of Computing and Information Technology -Ghana (CICIT) with the vision of discussing and sharing “ideas on global technology issues and advancement that is ongoing” – Dr. Kofi Sarpong Adu Manu.The forum will also be an opportunity to catalyze ideas that will shape the future of technology and its impact on various sectors of the economy.

In a speech by David Gowu, Executive Director of the Institute of ICT Professionals Ghana (IIPGH), he mentioned that the National ICT Week and World Technology Forum aligns with the mission of IIPGH which is to build a connected community of ICT professionals  with the required expertise to propel our nation’s progress in the digital age through initiatives such as tech job fairs, tech entrepreneurs’ forums, and coding caravans.  He further stated that the National ICT Week initiative by NITA will lead to a “nurturing environment where stakeholders converge, ideas flourish and knowledge prevails”.

Subsequently, in an address by the Deputy Minister for Communication and Digitalisation, Hon Ama Pomaa Boateng, she mentioned that there is the “tremendous potential of ICT to bridge gaps, break barriers, and provide unprecedented access to essential services such as education, healthcare, agriculture, and economic opportunities, even in the most remote areas of our country.”

The National ICT Week according to her will delve into various aspects of digital transformation for sustainable development and this will be marked by activities including:

• Panel Discussions: Stakeholders from government, the private sector, academia, and civil society will be brought together to explore the challenges, opportunities, and best strategies to address the pressing needs of our nation.
• Workshops: Workshops that build digital skills such as coding, digital marketing, and entrepreneurship, equipping the youth with the necessary tools to compete in the global digital landscape.
• E-Governance: To explore the role of ICT in enhancing government services, promoting transparency, and fostering citizen engagement.
• Digital Inclusion: To discuss strategies that will bridge the digital divide and ensure that the benefits of technology reach all segments of society.
• Sustainable Development: Examining how ICT can contribute to sustainable practices in sectors such as agriculture, energy, healthcare, and education.
• ICT and Research: Emphasis on ICT education and research in our academic institutions to foster a culture of lifelong learning and technological adaptation.
• Cybersecurity: Addressing the importance of cybersecurity in the digital age and discussing ways to safeguard critical information and infrastructure.

With the launch of the National ICT Week and World Technology Forum at UPSA, Ghana takes a significant stride towards a brighter and more digitally empowered future. By embracing technology, fostering innovation, and nurturing collaboration, the event sets the stage for a sustainable economy where prosperity and opportunities are accessible to all citizens. This will also be a testament to the power of ICT in shaping the trajectory of Ghana’s development. The journey begins with the launch of this event, and we are excited to witness the transformative impact it will have on the ICT landscape in Ghana every year.

Smart Infraco: A Trusted Partner for Digital Infrastructure During the Launch

Represented by our Chief Executive Officer, Harkirit Singh, and Chief Technology Officer, Michael Kwablah, Smart Infraco played a vital role in this event, showcasing our commitment to empowering digital transformation in Ghana. On Day 2 of the event, our Chief Technology Officer took the stage to give a presentation that resonated with the audience, emphasizing the critical role of digital infrastructure in shaping the technological landscape of Ghana. Through a comprehensive overview, he highlighted the services and solutions that Smart Infraco brings, demonstrating our ability to empower government agencies and businesses.

As we reflect on the National ICT Week celebration, we are proud to have been a part of this remarkable event. The energy, enthusiasm, and shared vision for a digitally empowered Ghana was palpable. We look forward to a week-long celebration every August with enthusiasm and determination, knowing that we are shaping a future that is successful, sustainable, inclusive, and digitally empowered.

Watch videos :

• National ICT Week and World Technology Forum | Day One
• National ICT Week and World Technology Forum | Day Two