Ministers and deputy ministers are to undergo computer literacy lessons from September 17 in line with the government's aim of using Information and Communications Technology (ICT) to support the country's development effort.
Felix Owusu-Agyapong, Minister of Transport and Communications, who announced this in Accra on Tuesday, said in this digital age the ability to manage and use information effectively determines the success of any government.
Speaking at a national round-table conference for over 150 ICT experts to discuss the formulation of an Information Technology (IT) Policy Framework for the nation, he said ICT is a cross-sectoral development tool that would enhance the quality and volume of product as well as services in all sectors.
"ICT is a unique sector that can generate revenue for the public sector and profit for private sector and is expected to contribute a minimum of three per cent to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth."
Owusu-Adjapong said in view of this, his ministry intends to develop a strong IT education programme and promote the local manufacture of ICT equipment and applications.
Jake Obetsebi-Lamptey, Minister of Presidential Affairs, who chaired the conference, said Ghana has no choice but to join the IT world. He said the government's desire to become a middle-income nation could only be achieved by creating an IT industry.
