What's Happening?
CWG Ghana has relaunched its CWG Academy, focusing on equipping students and professionals with practical ICT skills to meet the demands of the digital economy. The Academy, originally opened in 2015,
now offers courses in infrastructure, cloud technologies, and software development. Harriet Yartey, Vice President for Regions and Managing Director of CWG Ghana, emphasized the Academy's role in bridging the gap between academic instruction and industry practice. The World Bank's 2024 Africa Pulse Report highlights that nearly 60% of tertiary graduates in Sub-Saharan Africa face unemployment or underemployment due to a mismatch between classroom learning and practical skills. Locally, Ghana's youth unemployment rates are significant, with ICT sectors particularly affected by talent shortages.
Why It's Important?
The relaunch of CWG Academy is crucial in addressing the skills gap in Ghana's technology sector, which affects employability and economic growth. By providing hands-on experience, the Academy aims to make graduates job-ready, thus improving employment outcomes. This initiative aligns with broader trends in Africa, where digital skills are increasingly necessary for economic development. The International Finance Corporation projects a growing demand for tech-skilled workers in Sub-Saharan Africa, highlighting the importance of such training programs. CWG Ghana's efforts could serve as a model for other regions facing similar challenges.
What's Next?
CWG Ghana plans to expand the Academy's partnerships with universities and industry players to ensure the curriculum remains aligned with global standards. The Academy will offer short professional courses and intensive training modules, aiming to improve employability outcomes. Additionally, it will host national service personnel for skills-based internships. As interest in digital skills training grows across Africa, CWG Ghana's initiative could lead to increased collaboration and innovation in the tech sector.
Beyond the Headlines
The relaunch of CWG Academy not only addresses immediate employability issues but also contributes to long-term economic stability by fostering a skilled workforce. This initiative highlights the importance of practical training in bridging educational gaps and enhancing career prospects. It also underscores the role of corporate social responsibility in addressing societal challenges, such as unemployment and skills shortages.
