President John Dramani Mahama says Ghana is ready to lead the digital age.
In a keynote address given at the One Million Ghana Coders Programme (OMCP) Ghana–India on April 16th, the President said, “We are not merely launching a program – we are laying the foundation to a new economy… We are saying to our youth, to our communities, to the continent and to the world: the future is here and we will be part of shaping it.”
As part of his campaign messages for the 2024 general elections, Mr. Mahama promised to train one million Ghanaians in coding. This initiative is part of his efforts to promote digital literacy and skills development in the country.
At the launch of the OMCP, President Mahama emphasized that the program goes beyond a fulfilled campaign promise. “It is a strategic pillar of our Reset Ghana Agenda, designed to empower Ghanaians with digital skills critical for 21st-century life and work,” he said.
He spoke of countries like Estonia, the United Kingdom, Finland, Japan, and the United States, which have transformed their economies by introducing coding into their educational curriculum.
He said if Ghana adopts the blueprints of these countries and applies them to the Ghanaian context, the country stands a chance of becoming Africa’s premier hub for the global Business Process Outsourcing (BPO).
“As of this year, the global Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) market is valued at $410 billion, projected to grow to nearly $490 billion by 2029. Countries like India and the Philippines dominate this space, offering services in software development, data management, customer support, and more,” he said.
Apart from job creation and economic growth, the president said the program will bring about entrepreneurship and innovation. It will also encourage education and lifelong learning. Last but not least, he mentioned inclusion. “Digital transformation must not leave anyone behind,” he stressed.
The President reiterated that one must not underestimate what the OMCP means for Ghana. He said “by embarking on this program, we are changing the national narrative. One from limitations to limitless potentials. Instead of waiting for jobs, Ghanaian youth will create jobs.”
“This is that purpose. This is Ghana’s moment — to rise, to lead, to shape the future. And so, with pride, and with faith in the extraordinary potential of the Ghanaian people, I officially launch the One Million Coders Programme.”
