By Stanley Senya
Accra, Oct. 21, GNA – The Slamm Foundation, in partnership with the Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council (ARCC) and the National Youth Authority (NYA), has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing the country’s digital transformation.
This is by equipping young people with essential skills in cybersecurity and Information Technology (IT).
The week-long Cybersecurity and IT Training Programme, held in Kumasi, brought together over 120 young participants and offered practical instruction in cybersecurity monitoring and policy, basic networking, IT audit, digital forensics, and investigative tools.
Dr. Samuel Boateng, Chief Executive Officer of Slamm Foundation said the initiative formed part of the Foundation’s long-term vision to empower African youth with technology-driven skills that are relevant to the global digital economy.
“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,” he said.
The CEO said the world was changing, and Africa, especially Ghana must be part of this digital revolution.
He said “My wife and I founded Slamm Technology in 2007, and 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 explained that the training aligned with the global Cybersecurity Awareness Month and aimed to help the youth develop the digital competencies needed to create jobs, start technology-driven enterprises, and contribute to national development.
“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,” Dr. Boateng added.
Mrs Francisca Boateng, the Founder, Slamm Foundation expressed commitment to providing further support to the participants.
She encouraged the participants to start applying the knowledge gained in their various communities.
“I wish to congratulate the participants and want to encourage them to make the most of what they have learnt here this week and we are ready and available to support – internships, job opportunities them all the way through,” she added.
Mr Samuel Twum, the Deputy Director of Administration at the ARCC representing the Ashanti Regional Minister commended the initiative, describing it as timely and impactful.
“This training has come at a time when technology and innovation, along with related cybersecurity challenges, are on the rise,” he said.
It covered key cybersecurity concepts, practical demonstrations, and hands-on exercises that have enhanced participants’ skills.
He said the employable IT skills would enable them to contribute meaningfully to Ghana’s digital transformation.
Mr. Twum, expressed appreciation to the Slamm Foundation and its partners for their continuous investment in Ghanaian youth, emphasising that the ARCC remained committed to working with such organisations to strengthen the nation’s digital future.
“The Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council is forever grateful to the Slamm Foundation for this impactful collaboration. We encourage all participants to apply what they have learnt to improve their lives and Ghana’s cyberspace,” he stated.
Mr George Owel Amponsah, the Ashanti Regional Director of NYA praised the programme’s success, highlighting its role in promoting digital literacy and responsible online behaviour among young people.
“This training has empowered our young people with the knowledge and skills to thrive in the digital age. We are especially grateful to Slamm Foundation, Slamm Technology, ISC2, ARCC, and the Regional Minister for their unwavering support,” he said.
He added that the NYA would continue to collaborate with Slamm Foundation and other partners to connect graduates of the training to firms for internships and job opportunities.
“We want to encourage you not to rush. Volunteer, gain experience, and grow into your dreams. Our doors are always open to support you,” Mr. Amponsah assured.
Fathia Chindo Yahaya, one of the participants said “For the past five days, we have gained knowledge on cybersecurity, networking, and risk management, especially how to identify when a system is under threat and how to address it early.”
She expressed the confidence to go back home and help the women in her community, especially market women, to be vigilant and to use strong passwords to protect their financial accounts.
GNA
Edited by George-Ramsey Benamba