GCTU, led by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Emmanuel Ohene Afoakwa, has engaged the Ministry of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation to explore avenues for deepening collaboration in advancing Ghana’s digital ecosystem.
The high-level delegation from GCTU paid a courtesy call on the Minister, where discussions centred on two major priorities: enhancing digital infrastructure on the University’s campuses and securing support for the establishment of a state-of-the-art Cyber Security Laboratory.
Chairing the meeting on behalf of the Minister, Hon. Samuel Nartey George (MP), was the Deputy Minister, Hon. Mohammed Adams Sukparu. He commended GCTU for its foresight and reiterated that the University’s initiatives strongly align with government’s digitalisation agenda.
A key highlight of the discussions was GCTU’s appeal for partnership with the Ministry in setting up a dedicated Cyber Security Laboratory to support research, training and national efforts against cyber threats. Prof. Afoakwa noted that construction of the edifice to house the lab has already commenced, with only finishing and equipment support required to make the space operational.
Hon. Sukparu, while acknowledging the urgent national need for enhanced cybersecurity systems, assured the delegation that the Ministry was committed to working closely with GCTU, noting that the proposed facility could significantly complement the mandate of the Cybersecurity Authority.
In addition to this request, Prof. Afoakwa officially invited the Ministry to inaugurate GCTU’s newly completed Centre for Innovation, Technological Skills, and Entrepreneurship Training. The facility, which boasts 92 high-performance computers and intelligent boards, has been designed to serve as a hub for training entrepreneurs and professionals in advanced ICT skills.
“Our vision is to position GCTU as the most viable ICT learning centre in West Africa. The new Centre will equip entrepreneurs and students with critical technological competencies required for Ghana’s digital transformation,” the Vice Chancellor stated.
The Deputy Minister lauded GCTU’s efforts, emphasizing the importance of such facilities in advancing government initiatives such as the ‘Girls in ICT’ programme and the One Million Coders project. He further assured that all requests and invitations would be conveyed to the Minister, with a confirmed date for the inauguration to be communicated to the University in due course.
The GCTU delegation also included the Acting Pro Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ebenezer Malcalm, the Registrar, Mr. Emmanuel Baidoo, the Director of Internal Audit, Mr. Kennedy Oppong Fosu and the Head of the Vice-Chancellor’s Secretariat, Mr. Eric Appah.
GCTU remains committed to driving innovation, research, and training that respond to national priorities, while strengthening partnerships with key stakeholders to deliver on its mandate as Ghana’s premier ICT-focused university.
