The Slamm Foundation has intensified efforts to build Ghana’s next generation of digital professionals by training over 200,000 young people in cybersecurity and Information Technology (IT) across the country.
The foundation, which aims to train one million youth within the next decade, says the initiative is part of its long-term vision to empower Africa’s youth to thrive in a global digital economy.
Speaking at the closing ceremony of a week-long Cybersecurity and IT Training Programme in Kumasi, Chief Executive Officer of the Slamm Foundation, Dr Samuel Boateng, said the foundation’s focus is to ensure young people acquire the skills needed to lead Ghana’s technological advancement. “I have acquired cybersecurity and IT knowledge over the past 25 years, and I believe there’s no better way to give back than to share that knowledge. The world is changing, and Africa—especially Ghana—must be part of this digital revolution,” he said.
Dr Boateng explained that since 2007, when he and his wife founded Slamm Technology, the organisation has remained committed to using technology to change lives. “For the past five years, we have trained more than 200,000 young people. Our goal is to train one million within the next ten years,” he stated, adding that the initiative aligns with global efforts to promote cybersecurity awareness and create employment through digital innovation.
He emphasised that the programme seeks to help the youth develop entrepreneurial and job-ready IT skills. “We are targeting the youth so they can build their technology ideas and create employment opportunities. That’s how we build a stronger digital Ghana,” he noted.
Co-founder of the Slamm Foundation, Mrs Francisca Boateng, congratulated participants for their commitment throughout the training. She encouraged them to immediately apply what they had learned in their various communities and assured them of continued support. “We are ready and available to support you through internships, job opportunities, and mentorship. This is only the beginning,” she said.
Representing the Ashanti Regional Minister, Deputy Director of Administration at the Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council, Mr Samuel Twum, commended the foundation for organising the training. “This initiative has come at a time when technology and innovation, along with related cybersecurity challenges, are on the rise. It covered key cybersecurity concepts, practical demonstrations, and hands-on exercises that have enhanced participants’ skills,” he remarked.
Mr Twum also praised the collaboration between the Slamm Foundation, the National Youth Authority (NYA), and the Regional Coordinating Council, noting that it would help create a stronger digital ecosystem in the region.
The Ashanti Regional Director of the NYA, Mr George Owel Amponsah, lauded the programme for promoting digital literacy and responsible online behaviour among young people. He assured that the NYA would continue to partner with Slamm Foundation to provide internship and employment opportunities for graduates of the training. “Volunteer, gain experience, and grow into your dreams. Our doors are always open to support you,” he advised.
One of the participants, Fathia Chindo Yahaya, said the training had deepened her understanding of cybersecurity and inspired her to share her new knowledge with others. “I now have the full confidence to go back home and help the women in my community, especially market women, to be vigilant and to use strong passwords to protect their financial accounts,” she said.
The Cybersecurity and IT Training Programme, organised by the Slamm Foundation in partnership with the Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council and the National Youth Authority, is part of a nationwide campaign to equip Ghanaian youth with digital and cybersecurity skills to meet the demands of the modern economy.
