The Deputy Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Hon. Mohammed Adams Sukparu (MP) has commended IEEE Region 8 for selecting Accra as the host city, highlighting the event as a testament to collaboration, innovation, and the shared vision of empowering Africa’s next generation of leaders.
The Deputy Minister said this when he delivered a keynote address yesterday at the opening ceremony of the 2025 IEEE R8 Africa Students & Young Professionals Congress, held at UPSA, Legon.
He lauded the theme of the congress “Empowering Africa’s Future Leaders Through STEM,” as timely, emphasizing that nations prioritising Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics are at the forefront of innovation, economic growth, and sustainable development globally.
The Deputy Minister stressed that Africa, rich in talent, creativity, and youthful energy, must create environments to nurture innovation and provide access to cutting-edge tools and knowledge, particularly in fields like artificial intelligence, data science, blockchain, cloud computing, and cybersecurity, which are identified as pillars of the Fourth Industrial Revolution that Africa must lead.
Highlighting Ghana’s Digital Vision, the Deputy Minister affirmed the nation’s commitment to building a resilient and inclusive digital economy through strategic investments in digital infrastructure, e-government services, fintech innovation, and ICT education, all aimed at bridging the digital divide, adding, Key initiatives underpinning this vision include national broadband expansion, support for local tech startups, and robust cybersecurity frameworks.
“Bold components of the Digital Ghana Agenda are underway, such as expanding last-mile connectivity in rural communities and the launch of a $1 billion Ghana–UAE Innovation and Technology Hub, designed to host the African headquarters of leading global firms” he noted.
Hon. Sukparu further hinted that Ghana is investing heavily in its people through the One Million Coders Programme which will equip one million Ghanaians, especially youth and women, with skills in coding, AI, machine learning, and emerging technologies, fostering economic empowerment and global competitiveness.
“A core goal of this vision is to position Ghana as the AI Hub of West Africa, supported by strategic investments, global partnerships, and policies promoting responsible AI across sectors like AgriTech and HealthTech”, he said.
The address also recognised IEEE as a global partner in progress, serving as a beacon of technological advancement and professional development.
The Deputy Minister acknowledged IEEE’s support for African students and young professionals, which reflects a deep commitment to capacity building and global collaboration.
He urged all students and young professionals present to network, explore, innovate, and collaborate, reminding them that the future of Africa rests in their hands as innovators, entrepreneurs, policymakers, and changemakers who will define the continent’s destiny through the power of STEM..
