One Million Coders Programme to Begin First Phase on May 1; Laptop Distribution Begins
The Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, has announced that the first phase of the One Million Coders Programme will officially begin on May 1, following a successful pilot stage.
Speaking at a media briefing, the Minister explained that the pilot was designed to test the programme and understand how best to roll it out nationwide. The initial plan was to train 500 people across four centres in Accra, Kumasi, Sunyani, and Bolgatanga.
However, interest in the programme exceeded expectations, with nearly 94,000 applications received within just 48 hours. Due to the overwhelming response, the application portal had to be closed early. In the end, about 1,000 participants were trained during the pilot phase.
Laptop Distribution Begins
As part of preparations for the nationwide rollout, the Minister announced that the distribution of laptops to learning centres has officially begun today. The devices are being sent to the 130 centres across the country to ensure they are fully equipped ahead of the start date.
Each centre is expected to receive laptops configured specifically for training, helping participants gain hands-on experience throughout the programme.
Nationwide Rollout
The first phase will see the establishment of 130 learning centres across all 16 regions. These centres will be equipped with at least 50 laptops each to support training.
In addition, the programme will be introduced in 12 public universities, including the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, University of Ghana, University of Cape Coast, University of Development Studies, and University of Mines and Technology, among others.
Support from Private Sector
The Minister highlighted the support of MTN Ghana, which has committed about $2 million to the initiative. The funds have been used to provide about 2,000 laptops for selected universities.
He noted that government will also provide additional equipment to ensure all participating institutions are well resourced.
Application Process to Reopen
The application portal is expected to reopen soon. Applicants who registered during the pilot phase will not need to apply again but can log in and continue their process.
New applicants, however, will go through a fresh application process, which has been improved to include verification steps such as email confirmation and identity checks using Ghana Card details.
The Minister revealed that during the pilot phase, about 40,000 fake applications were detected. The new system is expected to prevent such issues and ensure that only serious applicants are selected.
Job Opportunities for Participants
To support graduates of the programme, the Ministry has signed agreements with institutions and private sector partners to provide job opportunities after training.
According to the Minister, digital skills are becoming essential, and the programme is aimed at preparing young people for opportunities in the growing tech space.
He expressed confidence that the full rollout of the One Million Coders Programme will help equip many Ghanaians with skills that can improve their future and contribute to national development.
