Ghana’s Deputy Minister Champions STEM and Launches $1B Innovation Hub at IEEE Africa Congress”
The Deputy Minister lauded the event's theme, "Empowering Africa’s Future Leaders Through STEM," and highlighted its significance as a testament to collaboration and the shared vision of empowering Africa's next generation of leaders.
Ghana’s Deputy Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Hon. Mohammed Adams Sukparu, delivered a keynote address at the 2025 IEEE R8 Africa Students & Young Professionals Congress, held at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA). The Deputy Minister lauded the event’s theme, “Empowering Africa’s Future Leaders Through STEM,” and highlighted its significance as a testament to collaboration and the shared vision of empowering Africa’s next generation of leaders. He stressed that nations prioritizing Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) are at the forefront of global innovation and sustainable development.
Sukparu emphasized that Africa, with its vast talent and youthful energy, must create an environment that nurtures innovation. He called for increased access to cutting-edge tools and knowledge in fields like artificial intelligence (AI), data science, blockchain, cloud computing, and cybersecurity. He identified these areas as crucial pillars of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, which Africa must strive to lead.
The Deputy Minister also outlined Ghana’s “Digital Vision” and its commitment to building a resilient and inclusive digital economy. This vision is supported by strategic investments in digital infrastructure, e-government services, fintech innovation, and ICT education to bridge the digital divide. Key initiatives mentioned include the expansion of the national broadband network, support for local tech startups, and the development of robust cybersecurity frameworks. He specifically highlighted the “One Million Coders Programme,” designed to equip one million Ghanaians, particularly youth and women, with skills in coding and emerging technologies.
Furthermore, Sukparu announced that Ghana is launching a $1 billion Ghana–UAE Innovation and Technology Hub, which will serve as the African headquarters for leading global firms. He stated that a core goal of Ghana’s digital vision is to establish the nation as the AI Hub of West Africa. He concluded his address by urging the students and young professionals to network, explore, and innovate, reminding them that the future of Africa is in their hands.
