The 2024 Digital Literacy and Skills Training for Children in Ghana, powered by the South Korean Government in partnership with the Ghana Internet Safety Foundation (GISF), has concluded with resounding success.
Held earlier in the middle of 2024, this annual event, now in its sixth year, continued to gain momentum, directly and indirectly impacting over 300 schoolchildren aged 10 to 13 years across select schools in Kumasi, Ghana.
This year’s training featured the dynamic KIV team, codenamed “REBORN,” who conducted a series of impactful, skill-based lessons.
The curriculum covered cutting-edge topics such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Scratch programming, and, most importantly, online safety—a crucial area in today’s digital world.
One of the standout aspects of this year’s program was the emphasis on hands-on learning.
Students were not only introduced to AI concepts but also actively engaged in creating their own projects using Scratch, a visual programming language that encourages creativity and logical thinking.
The online safety sessions were particularly impactful, providing the young learners with essential skills to navigate the digital landscape safely.
The inclusion of hamster robots, provided through the generous support of the South Korean Government, was a highlight.
These robots facilitated interactive STEM learning, allowing the children to apply their coding skills in real-time, enhancing their understanding and engagement.
Gabriel Ofori Appiah, representing the Ghana Internet Safety Foundation, commended the South Korean Government for their unwavering support:
“This initiative has been a game-changer for our children. The provision of hamster robots has greatly enhanced the STEM development of the students, making learning both fun and educational.
….We are deeply grateful for this wonderful partnership, which continues to make a significant impact on the future of our youth.”
The training’s impact extended beyond the classroom, with students expressing their enthusiasm and newfound confidence in using digital tools.
12-year-old Ama Mensah from Kumasi shared her excitement: “I’ve always wanted to learn how computers work, and now I can create my own games with Scratch. The online safety lessons also taught me how to stay safe when I’m on the internet.”
Kwame Osei, a 13-year-old from Kumasi, echoed similar sentiments: “I was amazed by how AI can be used in everyday life. I feel more confident using technology now, and I know how to protect myself online.”
Teachers who participated in the program also praised the initiative. Mr. Kofi Owusu, a teacher from Sunyani, noted, “This training has not only equipped the students with critical digital skills but also empowered them to become responsible digital citizens. The online safety lessons, in particular, are invaluable in today’s world.”
The Ghana Internet Safety Foundation expressed its gratitude to the South Korean Government for their continued support and reaffirmed their commitment to advancing digital literacy and online safety for children across Ghana.
As the digital landscape evolves, initiatives like this are vital in preparing the younger generation to harness technology for positive outcomes while safeguarding their digital wellbeing.
The success of this year’s program sets a strong foundation for future collaborations, with both partners looking forward to expanding the reach and impact of digital literacy initiatives in Ghana.
