Analyst calls on gov’t to prioritise digital skills in economic transformation
By Rebecca Okine
An Economic analyst, Emmanuel Boateng, has called for urgent investment in digital skills development, warning that Ghana risks falling behind in the global digital transformation if human capital is not prioritised.
His remarks follow the release of the World Bank’s latest report, ‘From Promise to Productivity: Making Digital Work for People and Jobs,’ which outlines how digital technologies are reshaping economies and societies, while cautioning against rising exclusion and inequality.
Speaking on the Business Breakfast show on Zed 101.9 FM, Mr Boateng stressed that digital technology is now central to shaping productivity, human capital, and long-term economic development.
“The report makes it clear. Digital technology is no longer a luxury. It is the backbone of modern economies. But without the right skills, its benefits will remain out of reach for many,” he said.
The World Bank report paints a sobering picture. Globally, 4.5 billion people still lack access to essential health services, two billion live without social protection, and 70 percent of children in low- and middle-income countries are classified as “learning poor,” unable to read and understand a simple text by age 10.
Mr Boateng noted that digital solutions such as e-learning platforms, telemedicine, and mobile payments are already helping to address these challenges.
However, he cautioned that their success depends on whether citizens have the skills to use them effectively.
“These technologies will only deliver their full potential if people possess the digital skills to apply them, and if systems are in place to ensure inclusivity and interoperability,” the economic analyst explained.
Turning to Ghana, Mr Boateng acknowledged progress in digital adoption, particularly in mobile money, online education, and digital health platforms.
Yet, he warned that weak infrastructure, affordability gaps, and limited digital literacy continue to hinder inclusive growth.
“Too often, the focus is only on adopting new technologies rather than ensuring that people have the skills to use them in solving real societal problems,” he stressed.
The economic analyst urged policymakers to place people at the centre of digital transformation by investing in digital literacy programmes, expanding infrastructure, and making digital services affordable and accessible.
“Digital adoption without skills only widens inequality. Skills are the real key to unlocking the benefits of the digital economy,” Mr Boateng added.
