MTN Ghana, in partnership with nonprofit organization Thrive and Shine, has organised a landmark conference under the theme “Closing the Digital Divide: Advancing AI Literacy through STEM Education”.
The event aims to equip young Ghanaians with digital skills, mentorship, and practical experience in technology-driven solutions.
Bridging the Gender Gap in Technology
Speaking at the event, Kwame Adu Manu, MTN’s Manager for Digital Analytics and Reporting, emphasized the company’s commitment to narrowing the gender gap in technology.
He noted that MTN is actively connecting female scholars with mentors through its Women in Technology initiative, aiming to inspire more young women to pursue careers in STEM.
MTN has also invested GH₵17.6 million in its Girls in ICT program, which has trained over 15,000 girls aged nine to 15 in web and mobile app development.
Conference participants will gain hands-on experience in areas such as digital analytics, monetization, and AI-driven solutions, with opportunities to secure internships at MTN.
Thrive and Shine Launches STEM and AI Scholarship Program
Yvonne Dumor Boakye-Manu, Co-founder of Thrive and Shine, announced the launch of a scholarship scheme to address talent gaps in STEM and AI education, particularly for women.
Founded nearly two years ago, Thrive and Shine provides opportunities for talented individuals who lack access to resources and mentorship. Boakye-Manu, who leads AI literacy programs at Google, said her professional experience revealed the gender imbalance in tech and inspired her to expand her impact.
“Many of us possess talent, but opportunities are limited. Being in my position at Google, where very few women work in my office, made me think about how we could support others, especially young women, in STEM and AI education,” she explained.
The scholarship program, the organization’s first formal initiative, currently supports nine scholars – three women and six men – from institutions including the University of Ghana (UG) and KNUST. Plans are underway to open applications to a broader audience.
Boakye-Manu highlighted that registering the program gives credibility and enables collaboration with major partners, including MTN and MasterCard.
“Our goal is to reach more talented individuals, provide mentorship, and bridge the gender divide in STEM and AI education,” she said.
She stressed the importance of empowering African youth to not only consume technology but actively innovate and create with it.
Stakeholder Support for AI Literacy
Bernice Mprere-Gyekye, National Coordinator of the Ghana National Education Campaign Coalition, lauded the initiative, noting that AI literacy is critical as technology increasingly shapes sectors such as education, health, agriculture, business, and governance.
She emphasized the need for inclusive approaches that reach rural learners, children with disabilities, and other marginalized groups.
Eunice Yaa Brimfah Ackwerh, Senior Education Specialist at the World Bank, highlighted the alignment of the initiative with the Bank’s mission to promote equitable and quality education.
She cited programs including teacher training, distance learning platforms, and Ghana’s EdTech strategy and AI policy aimed at preparing students for the future workforce.
Building a Technology-Driven Future
The conference brought together stakeholders from government, civil society, academia, and the private sector to discuss strategies for bridging the digital divide, promoting AI literacy, and empowering Ghanaian youth to thrive in a technology-driven world.
