The Ministry of Communication and Digitisation yesterday held the Grand finale of its Information Communication and Technology (ICT) driven competition (Ms Geek Ghana 2024) to motivate young girls to consider careers in ICT to promote innovation in the country.
The competition was aimed at inspiring more girls into Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) to enable them to contribute meaningfully to solving the challenges confronting the country.
The event was marked by an inspiring speech from the Minister for Communications and Digitalisation, Hon. Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, who highlighted the vital role of gender equality in the tech industry.
She praised the young female innovators who competed, emphasizing the competition’s significance as a platform for empowering women in technology.
Mrs. Owusu-Ekuful reiterated the government’s commitment to nurturing young women’s contributions to the tech industry, noting that the Ms. Geek Ghana competition has grown into a movement that empowers women to tackle socio-economic challenges through innovation.
This year’s competition saw 66 applications from girls aged 13 to 21, reflecting a growing interest in technology among young Ghanaian women.
After a rigorous selection process, 10 finalists were chosen to present their innovative projects, ranging from e-waste management to healthcare solutions.Among the standout projects were Richardson Elorm’s “E-Waste Evolution,” Leticia Makafui Ahiamadzi’s environmental risk management system, and Hannibel Opokuwaa Nyarko’s “MumCare Connect,” a mobile app supporting maternal and child health.
The finalists’ dedication and creativity were commended by the Minister, who encouraged them to continue pushing the boundaries of technology.
As the winner, Bottozah Biana Bubune received a cash prize of 10000ghc and a fully funded trip to participate in the Ms. Geek Africa contest, scheduled for 2025.
This opportunity will allow her to showcase her project on a continental stage, competing with other brilliant minds from across Africa.
The event concluded with excitement as the young innovators looked forward to making a lasting impact on Ghana’s technology landscape, inspired by the success of previous winners like Sellasie Domi-Kuwonu, the reigning Ms. Geek Africa.
The Minister’s closing remarks called for continued efforts to create a future where gender is no barrier in the tech industry, urging all to support the next generation of female tech leaders.
Bottozah Biana Bubune expressed gratitude to the Minister for Communications and Digitalization, the Ministry itself, and other contestants.
She expressed confidence in winning the international competition.
