11-point tech roadmap agreed

-Dr Bawumia, IT experts discuss accelerated digitalisation

LEADERS in the technology space in Ghana including tech leaders, entrepreneurs, and Information Communication Technology (ICT) experts at a brainstorming   meeting with Vice-President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia have agreed an 11-point agenda to harness the potentials of technology for accelerated national development.

This pivotal gathering held on Friday, September 15, 2023 brought together approximately 100 professionals from the burgeoning technology and digital sectors in the country.

The main objective is to scale up technology as the driving force behind a more inclusive and digitally advanced Ghana, with the promise of a brighter digital future on the horizon.

They delved into Ghana’s ongoing digitization endeavors as well as how to foster a vibrant exchange of ideas aimed at propelling the nation into the forefront of digital innovation.

The summit opened with Vice-President Dr Bawumia providing an insightful overview of Ghana’s current status in the realm of digital and technological advancements.

The discussion spanned a multitude of critical areas, including e-governance, digital financial services, digital infrastructure, the Ghana card, digital addressing systems, mobile money interoperability, Ghana.gov, the citizen app, and a host of other technology-driven initiatives undertaken in partnership with the private sector.

However, this meeting was not merely a status update; it was a forum for innovation and insight.

The tech community present seized the opportunity to share their vision for Ghana’s digital future.

One resounding theme emerged – the need for an integrated data platform mindset within the government.

This shift in approach promises to reduce costs, expedite development, and pave the way for seamless system integrations.

Participants also emphasized the importance of establishing a policy framework that positions data and artificial intelligence as the cornerstone of economic growth in Ghana.

The need for a robust legal framework accessible to businesses and digital entrepreneurs took center stage, with a call for specialized education in technology law and intellectual property.

Proposals were made for banks to establish technology development funds, a move seen as pivotal in assisting companies to scale their products and innovations.

Recognizing the limitations of the Ghanaian market size, the potential for collaborating with neighboring countries and the entire African continent to foster a unified market for technology products was discussed extensively.

Further, a framework for nurturing talent and skills tailored for Ghana’s digital revolution was put forth, acknowledging that a skilled workforce is the lifeblood of any technological advancement.

In an era where cybersecurity is paramount, participants also highlighted the potential of this field for job creation, both within Ghana and on a global scale.

The meeting underscored the necessity of addressing challenges within the current procurement framework for acquiring technology services for the government.

Participants emphasized the importance of bolstering technology change management programs and empowering corresponding agencies to ensure a secure and interoperable Ghanaian technology ecosystem.

One of the significant highlights of the summit was the proposal for an impartial, apolitical, transparent national technology roadmap.

This roadmap will guide the technology sector in the implementation of solutions, providing a clear direction for the nation’s digital transformation.

Participants advocated for the establishment of a program to promote digital literacy among the public.

This initiative would educate citizens on digital government engagement and clarify fundamental technology concepts, bridging the digital divide.

The IT community expressed deep gratitude for the open dialogue with Vice-President Dr Bawumia and a strong interest in future engagements.

Ghana’s leadership, as demonstrated through this proactive approach, underscores the nation’s unwavering commitment to harnessing technology’s potential for national development.

The partnership between the government and the IT community is poised to be the driving force behind a more inclusive and digitally advanced Ghana, with the promise of a brighter digital future on the horizon.