By: Ashiadey Dotse
The Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation, Samuel Nartey George, has announced that through private partnership MTN Ghana has contributed $2 million to support the One Million Coders Programme, with the funds being used to procure about 2,000 laptops for selected universities.
Speaking at a laptop presentation ceremony for the national rollout of the programme on Friday, April, 10, 2026, Mr. George said the government will complement MTN’s support with additional equipment to ensure wider access for students across the country.
He explained that the One Million Coders Programme, launched by President John Dramani Mahama, began as a pilot to test how the training would be received and how beneficiaries would transition into jobs.
According to him, the pilot phase initially targeted 500 trainees but received nearly 94,000 applications, forcing authorities to close the portal due to the overwhelming demand. About 1,000 participants were eventually trained, and their performance and outcomes were carefully assessed before expanding the programme.
Mr. George noted that the initiative is not just about training large numbers but about equipping young people with practical digital skills that can lead to real job opportunities.
He said the nationwide rollout will see the establishment of 130 learning centres across all 16 regions, each equipped with 50 customised laptops, bringing the total number of laptops to about 6,500 from government stock.
The Minister added that the programme will also be extended to about 12 universities, including the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology and the University of Ghana, among others.
He further disclosed that the application portal will be reopened, allowing previous applicants to log in and select courses, while new applicants will go through a verified registration process to reduce fake applications.
Mr. George said the government is also working with industry partners to ensure that graduates are connected to job opportunities, including remote work and outsourcing roles.
He assured that the Ministry is committed to implementing the programme effectively to build a strong pipeline of skilled ICT professionals for Ghana’s digital economy.
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Source:
www.gbcghanaonline.com