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Ghana Youth Tech Summit 2024 Paves the Way for Tech-Driven Social Impact


The Ghana Youth Tech Summit 2024, formerly known as the Ghana Tertiary Tech Summit conveyed at the Accra Digital Centre on November 8, 2024 to empower young people in Technology and innovation. The event brought together participants from across the country, including stakeholders from academia, industry, government, and the tech startup ecosystem. This year’s theme, “Leveraging Technology for Social Impact,” set the tone for insightful discussions on how digital innovations can drive societal change in Ghana.


Opening Remarks and Project Announcement
Haly Festus, the project lead for the Ghana Youth Tech Summit, began the event with a significant announcement about a new collaboration with the Ghana Internet Safety Foundation. The partnership aims to provide cybersecurity training and mentorship for young tech talents. Festus expressed his gratitude for the partnership and called for more collaborative efforts from tech organizations.
“Partnerships like these are crucial for creating an enabling environment for the next generation of tech leaders,” Festus noted. “Let’s show what Ghana can achieve when we harness technology for social good.”


Keynote Presentations


The first keynote address was delivered by Mr. Isaac Newton Acquah, National Project Coordinator for the Ghana International Trade Centre. He spoke on “Leveraging Emerging Technologies,” urging the youth to adopt a proactive mind-set and utilize digital tools such as mobile phones and the Internet to overcome business challenges, particularly in funding.


His Excellency Maher Kheir, the Lebanese Ambassador to Ghana, delivered the second keynote address, highlighting the transformative power of technology. “Leveraging technology has not only changed lives but saved lives as well,” he remarked, encouraging the youth to pursue meaningful careers in technology.


Mr. Gabrielle Ofori Appiah, the third keynote speaker, focused on responsible use of digital platforms. “If you’re a young person and you want to make an impact, please, use the Internet space wisely,” he advised.


Panel Discussions


First Panel: Digital Inclusion and Accessibility


The first panel discussion, moderated by Prince Akpa, Founder and Managing Director of Advance Media Africa, centered on “Digital Inclusion and Accessibility: The Role of Stakeholders, Youth, Industry, and Government.” Panelists included:

– Emmanuel Mumuni, Component Manager at GIZ
– Nana Adjoa Adobea, Social Development Activist
– Philip Okoampah Kwaning, Business Analyst at MTN Ghana
– Eric Hackman, Representative from AmaliTech
The discussion highlighted strategies for bridging the digital divide and the collaborative efforts needed to ensure equal access to digital resources across various sectors.


Second Panel: Founder’s Series


The second panel, titled “Founder’s Series,” was moderated by student journalist Moudlyn Dzefe. It featured:
– Joshua Opoku Agyeman, Co-Founder of OIT Network
– Henry Senyegbe, CEO of Code Club Academy
– Ebenezer Kwesi Hayford, President of E-sport Ghana Association

The panelists shared their career journeys, offering practical insights into the challenges and successes they have experienced as founders in the tech industry. They inspired the audience with stories of resilience and innovation, providing a realistic view of the entrepreneurial landscape.


Third Panel: Leveraging Technology and Social Media for Social Impact


The third panel discussion, moderated by tech content creator Emmanuel Fianko, focused on “How to Leverage Technology and Social Media to Drive Social Impact.”
The panel included:
– Kobby Kyei, Award-Winning Blogger
– Abdul Osman, Founder of Hive
– Jonathan Kennedy Sowah, CEO of Inovtech
The discussion explored strategies for using technology and social media platforms to address social issues, engage communities, and create meaningful content.


Additional Speakers and Closing Remarks


Several other speakers shared their expertise before the event concluded. They provided additional perspectives and experiences, enriching the discussions throughout the day.


Selestine Aidu delivered the closing remarks, expressing heartfelt appreciation to all the partners, sponsors, speakers, and participants who contributed to the success of the summit. “We hope you leave today feeling inspired, connected, and ready to make your unique mark on the world,” Aidu said.
She concluded with a message of hope and continuity: “Let’s remember that this summit is not the end but the beginning of new possibilities, partnerships, and aspirations. Let’s keep building, connecting, and supporting one another as we work together to drive positive change through technology.”


Exhibitions
The exhibition area showcased books and innovative solutions from startups, attracting significant interest for their potential impact in Ghana.

With a strong focus on collaboration, innovation, and practical skills development, the Ghana Youth Tech Summit 2024 has laid the foundation for continued growth and impact in Ghana’s tech ecosystem.

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