Samuel Nartey George, Minister of Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovation, has unveiled the government’s plan to promote digital inclusivity for Persons With Disabilities (PWDs).
He acknowledged that both global and local digitalisation efforts often sideline individuals with impairments or difficulties, leaving many excluded from the digital space.
The Minister made the announcement at the grand finale of the “Tekyerma Pa” Hackathon 2025, held at the University of Ghana.
The landmark event, spearheaded by Professor Isaac Wiafe, Principal Investigator of the project, was dedicated to advancing Artificial Intelligence (AI) for inclusive communication in Ghanaian languages, with a special focus on supporting individuals with speech impairments.
Four tertiary institutions and an industry team competed for honours.
“Kasa Noma” from the University of Environment and Sustainable Development took first place.
“Whisper Wave” from the industry secured second place.
“Twilight” from the University of Ghana placed third.
In Ghana, digital exclusion presents a major challenge for PWDs, hindering their full participation in an increasingly digital society. While the country continues to make strides in digital transformation, many PWDs remain on the wrong side of the digital divide.
To address this, the Minister announced that under the “One Million Coders” initiative, the government would ensure that at least 10 per cent of beneficiaries are persons with disabilities.
He added that this initiative would be complemented by the rollout of regional digital centres and zonal ICT innovation hubs to provide structured training for vulnerable groups, particularly women and PWDs.
“As new innovations emerge, players in the digital industry must ensure that inequality does not prevail,” he cautioned.
He emphasized that innovations like AI could either bridge the gap or deepen inequality, depending on how they are applied.
Commending the participants of the “Tekyerma Pa” Hackathon for their innovation in disability technology, the Minister said,
“Your tools may one day allow a child with cerebral palsy to speak to her classmates and family members in Nzema. Your tools may help an elderly man recovering from a stroke to express himself again with dignity in Ghana.”
Source: myjoyonline.com