UNIVERSITY OF EDUCATION, WINNEBA

FACULTY OF SOCIAL SCIENCES EDUCATION

DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL STUDIES EDUCATION

LECTURER : MISS DORIS BOAKYE ACHEAMPONG

COURSE TITLE : YOUTH AND NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT

COURSE CODE : SSE 481

QUESTION

Technology and Innovation

o The role of technology in national development

o Youth-led tech innovations in Ghana
o Digital skills and the future of work
TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION

In the Ghana National Youth Policy, youth is defined as individual aged fifteen (15) to thirty-five
(35) years. This definition aligns with the African Youth Charter and aims to harmonize various
interpretation of youth across different context.

Technology refers to the application of scientific knowledge, skills, and methods to create tools,
machines, devices, systems, and processes that solve problems, improve efficiency, and enhance
human life.

Innovation is the process of creating new or improved ideas, products, services, processes, or
business models that offer value and benefits to individuals, organizations, or society as a whole.

Technology and innovation play a crucial role in national development by driving economic
growth, improving quality of life, and transforming societies. However, Ghana's national
innovation system is relatively small and underdeveloped compared to middle-income
countries.To harness the power of technology for development, Ghana needs to modernize its
R&D institutes and stimulate the growth of a national innovation system restructure its science
and technology machinery to make it more responsive to national needs and priorities revitalize
science education at all levels and promote the training of technical personnel acquire skills in
high-tech areas like ICT, biotechnology and nanotechnology Promote mastery of known
technologies and their application in industry Allocate at least 1% of GDP to support the science
and technology sector Frontier technologies like AI, robotics and gene-editing can bring
enormous benefits in areas like agriculture, health, education and energy. However, they also
risk widening inequalities if not managed properly. Governments need to improve access to
digital infrastructure, develop necessary skills, and scale up pro-poor innovations to ensure these
technologies contribute to increasing equality.
In summary, a balanced approach that builds a robust industrial base while promoting frontier
technologies is key for Ghana's success in the 21st century. This requires a multi-stakeholder
effort involving the government, private sector, civil society and international community.

a. Role of technology in national development

Technology plays a fundamental role in wealth creation, improvement of the quality of life, real
economic growth, and transformation in any society. It is essential for innovation, economic
prosperity, and sustainable development. Roles of technology in national development include:

Contributing to economic growth and development. alleviating poverty and improving living
standards. Technological advancements significantly influence economic growth by
transforming industries, creating new markets, and enhancing productivity. Key impacts include:

1.Digital Economy Growth: Technology facilitates online business, expanding market access
globally.

2.Innovation and Productivity: Technological progress drives long-term growth, with research
showing that countries with higher patent activity experience faster economic growth.

3. Data-Driven Decision Making: Enhanced data analytics enable firms to optimize operations
and adapt to market changes.

4. Employment Opportunities: Improved communication technologies foster remote work and

entrepreneurship, contributing to job creation. The role of technology extend to enhancing
productivity and efficiency in sectors like agriculture and manufacturing. Improving access to
healthcare, education, and other public services, Promoting environmental sustainability and
addressing climate change

To harness the benefits of technology for national development, countries need to ; Invest in
research, development, and innovation, Develop a skilled workforce in science and technology,
Promote technology transfer and adaptation of existing technologies, Ensure equitable access to
technology across all segments of society
In summary, strategic investments and policies in science and technology are crucial for
countries to achieve economic prosperity, social progress, and global competitiveness in the 21st
century.

Technology plays a critical role in enhancing service delivery across various sectors, particularly
in government. It simplifies access to services through e-government platforms, automates
processes for efficiency, and provides data insights for better decision-making. For instance,
online portals allow citizens to access services anytime, improving inclusivity, especially for
those in remote areas. Furthermore, technology fosters accountability and transparency, enabling
citizens to monitor service performance and hold providers accountable, ultimately leading to
improved public service.

Evaluating technology's potential in addressing development challenges involves assessing

various factors, including social impact, usability, and interoperability.

Technological Merit: Assessing the significance and uniqueness of the technology.

Social Benefits: Evaluating contributions to human improvement and national prestige.

Adoption Costs: Understanding the financial implications and required resources for
implementation.

Risks: Identifying potential health, environmental, and legal risks associated with the technology.

These evaluations help determine the effectiveness and appropriateness of technology in

development contexts

b. Youth-led tech innovations in ghana

Youth-led tech innovations refer to innovative technology solutions, products, or services

created, developed, and implemented by young people, typically aged 18-35. These innovations
can address various challenges, needs, or opportunities across industries, social impact areas, or
everyday life.Youth-led technology initiatives in Ghana are vital for national development,
leveraging the country's youthful population—approximately 57% are under 25. These initiatives
foster innovation, address societal challenges, and contribute to economic growth. Some of the
youth led tech innitiatives innovation in ghana include; HealthTech: AI-powered diagnosis tools,
telemedicine platforms, or wearable devices for health monitoring. EdTech: Personalized
learning platforms, educational mobile apps, or virtual reality experiences for enhanced
learning.FinTech: Mobile payment solutions, digital wallets, or cryptocurrency platforms for
financial inclusion.Sustainability: Eco-friendly products, renewable energy solutions, or waste
management systems.Social Impact: Digital platforms for social entrepreneurship, non-profit
tech initiatives, or community-driven projects.

Successful youth-led tech initiatives have emerged as powerful catalysts for innovation and
social change. These initiatives often leverage digital technologies to address pressing challenges
while empowering young people. Here are some notable examples and insights from recent case
studies: the following are some of the successful youth-led tech innitiatives startups; Terra Grow
and CrossWork

These organizations are recognized for their user-centric solutions that utilize artificial
intelligence and mobile applications. They focus on enhancing resource efficiency and resilience,
particularly in the context of climate action. Their innovations are designed to be affordable and
accessible, demonstrating the potential of youth-led initiatives to address complex environmental
challenges effectively.

Modus Operandi

This fintech startup aims to dismantle financial barriers for unbanked businesses, illustrating how
digital innovations can empower marginalized communities. By providing access to financial
services, it showcases the role of youth in creating solutions that foster economic inclusion.

Youth-led Digital Innovation during COVID-19

A case study highlighted the resilience of youth in Uganda who adapted to the challenges posed
by the pandemic. Young entrepreneurs emphasized the need for training in digital technologies
and financial support to harness their innovative ideas. They proposed solutions such as peer-to-
peer learning systems and hackathons to encourage creativity and collaboration among youth.

Youth-led tech initiatives have had a significant impact across various sectors in Africa but will
talk of a few sectors like Agriculture, Technology, socioeconomic development, culture and
subcultural innovations, and civic engagement and political activism

Agriculture
Young innovators are transforming the agricultural sector by embracing technologies like
precision farming and drones for crop monitoring. These innovations boost productivity,
sustainability, and food security while creating new economic opportunities in rural areas.

Technology

African youth are at the forefront of technological innovation, with startups and tech hubs
emerging across the continent. Mobile apps are revolutionizing sectors such as healthcare,
education, and finance. For example, M-Pesa in Kenya has transformed financial transactions by
providing accessible solutions for the unbanked.

Socio-economic Development

Young innovators are driving positive social change with inventions addressing healthcare,
education, and gender equality. Initiatives include affordable healthcare solutions, bridging
education gaps, and leveraging technology for social enterprises.

Civic Engagement and Political Activism

Youth-led digital innovations empower young citizens to design and implement effective,
innovative, and sustainable development initiatives. They utilize digital technologies to raise
awareness and mobilize people around issues like climate action.

Cultural and Subcultural Innovation

Young people's innovative spirit and fresh perspectives are vital for creating digital solutions to
complex challenges. They leverage social media, online campaigns, and other forms of
expression to drive change.

These examples demonstrate the transformative potential of youth-led tech initiatives in Africa.
By addressing barriers and providing supportive ecosystems, stakeholders can further harness the
creativity and digital-savvy approaches of young innovators to drive sustainable development
across various sectors.

The ecosystem supporting youth in tech is been staired by various stakeholders working together
to foster innovation, drive research and development, enable entrepreneurial ventures, and
empower the next generation of technologists. Key players in this ecosystem include:
Governments

Governments play a crucial role by providing a supportive framework through policies,

regulations, and investments. They establish research and development initiatives, foster public-
private partnerships, and promote innovation ecosystems. Governments also allocate resources
for infrastructure development, broadband connectivity, and digital inclusion, ensuring
technology reaches all segments of society.

Academia

Academic institutions are at the forefront of essential research, knowledge creation, and talent
development. They cultivate a culture of intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and
experimentation through cutting-edge research. Collaboration between academia and industry
facilitates knowledge and technology transfer as well as the commercialization of research
findings. Academic institutions also equip future generations with the necessary skills and
knowledge to fuel technological advancements.

Tech Executives

Tech executives, including industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and visionaries, shape the strategic
direction of technology advancement. Their expertise in market dynamics, industry trends, and
technological landscapes guides decision-making and resource allocation. Tech executives drive
corporate innovation by investing in research and development, fostering partnerships, and
driving technological adoption within their organizations.

Youth

Today's youth, as digital natives, possess an innate affinity for technology. They bring fresh
perspectives, creativity, and an adaptive mindset to the tech-focused world. Engaging and
empowering youth in technology-related initiatives, such as coding camps, robotics
competitions, and innovation challenges, fosters a culture of innovation from an early age.
Young minds often think unconventionally and challenge existing paradigms, leading to
breakthroughs and disruptive innovations.

The collective power of these ecosystems is instrumental in pushing the boundaries of what is
possible and driving transformative technological advancements. By leveraging their unique
strengths and collaborating effectively, these stakeholders can create an enabling environment
that supports and empowers youth in tech.

C. Digital skills and the future of work

Digital skills refer to the abilities and knowledge required to effectively use digital technologies,
tools, and platforms to achieve specific goals, solve problems, or complete tasks. These skills
encompass a range of competencies, including: Basic computer skills_: Using operating systems,
software applications, and hardware devices. Online safety and security_: Protecting personal
data, privacy, and online identity Information literacy_: Finding, evaluating, and using online
information effectively.Communication and collaboration_: Using digital tools for teamwork,
email, and social media. Digital content creation_: Producing and editing text, images, videos,
and audio content.

digital skills essential for the future of work or current job market reveals a diverse range of
competencies that are increasingly in demand across various industries. The digital
transformation accelerated by recent technological advancements and the COVID-19 pandemic
has underscored the need for a workforce equipped with these skills.

Data Analysis and Data Literacy:

The ability to analyze data and derive actionable insights is critical. Companies require
professionals who can utilize tools like Google Analytics, Tableau, and Business Intelligence to
inform decision-making. Data literacy, which encompasses understanding data sources and
interpreting results, is now a prerequisite in many roles.

Cybersecurity Awareness:

As cyber threats become more prevalent, knowledge of cybersecurity practices is essential. This
includes recognizing phishing attempts, protecting data, and maintaining online security
protocols.

Programming and Coding:

While not every job requires extensive programming knowledge, a foundational understanding
of coding is increasingly valuable, particularly in fields like web development and data analysis.
Digital Marketing Skills:

Proficiency in digital marketing, including SEO, SEM, and social media strategies, is crucial.
Understanding how to analyze and optimize marketing campaigns based on data is a significant
advantage for job seekers.

Big Data Management:

Companies are increasingly looking for specialists who can manage and analyze large datasets.
Skills in Big Data technologies and database management (both SQL and NoSQL) are highly
sought after.

The demand for these digital skills reflects the ongoing shift in the job market towards a more
technology-driven landscape. Educational institutions and training providers are urged to adapt
their curricula to equip students and professionals with these competencies, ensuring they remain
competitive and relevant in their field.

The gap between Ghana and the digital skills is a pressing issue that has significant implications
for the country's economic growth and workforce development. Various studies and reports
highlight the current state of digital skills in Ghana, the factors contributing to the gap, and
potential strategies for addressing it. The following are the current state of digital skills in Ghana;

Demand-Supply Gap: There is a notable gap between the demand for digital skills and their
supply across all levels in Ghana. Basic digital skills are essential, but the need for intermediate
and advanced skills is growing rapidly, particularly as sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing,
and services become more digitized. By 2030, it is estimated that over 230 million jobs in Sub-
Saharan Africa will require digital skills, with Ghana facing a greater shortage of advanced skills
compared to other regions.

Education System Challenges: The education system in Ghana has been slow to adapt to the
digital age. Many universities and educational institutions have not sufficiently integrated digital
literacy into their curricula, leading to a lack of technologically proficient graduates. Research
indicates that inadequate ICT foundations at the elementary and secondary levels contribute to
this skills gap among undergraduate students.
Policy and Infrastructure Issues: While the Ghanaian government has made efforts to incorporate
ICT in education, the policy response has not been adequate to meet the growing demand for
digital skills. There is a need for comprehensive digital literacy strategies that span all levels of
education, from primary to tertiary. Additionally, many institutions lack the necessary ICT tools
and resources to effectively teach digital skills. There are factors that contribute to digital skills
gap in Ghana and some are as follows;

Lack of Access to Resources: Many students and young professionals in Ghana do not have
sufficient access to computers and the internet, which limits their ability to acquire digital skills.

Insufficient Training Programs: There is a lack of targeted training programs that cater to the
specific needs of the workforce. Many companies report difficulties in finding candidates with
the right digital skills, leading them to seek talent from abroad.

Economic Implications: The digital skills gap has economic repercussions, as it hampers the
ability of Ghana's workforce to compete in a globalized economy. Without adequate digital
skills, the potential contribution of the digital economy to Ghana's GDP could be significantly
diminished. I believe digital skills gap in Ghana can be briged through;

Collaborative Efforts: Stakeholders, including the government, educational institutions, and

private sector organizations, must collaborate to develop and implement effective digital skills
training programs. This includes creating partnerships that can provide resources and support for
digital education initiatives.

Policy Development: The Ghanaian government should prioritize the development of policies
that promote digital literacy across all educational levels, ensuring that students are equipped
with the necessary skills to thrive in a digital economy.

Investment in Infrastructure: Improving access to ICT resources in schools and communities is

crucial. This includes providing computers and internet access to underserved areas to ensure
that all students have the opportunity to develop digital skills.

Focus on Lifelong Learning: Encouraging continuous learning and professional development in

digital skills is essential for the workforce to adapt to changing technological demands. This can
involve offering workshops, online courses, and certification programs tailored to various skill
levels.

In summary, addressing the digital skills gap in Ghana requires a multifaceted approach that
involves collaboration among various stakeholders, investment in educational infrastructure, and
the development of comprehensive policies aimed at enhancing digital literacy. Without these
efforts, Ghana risks falling behind in an increasingly digital global economy.

There is the need country or nation to address or enhance the digital literacy among the youth,
and several effective strategies that can be employed across educational settings and at home.
These strategies focus on developing essential skills, fostering responsible online behavior, and
ensuring that young individuals are equipped to navigate the digital landscape effectively.

Educational Strategies

Motivation and Engagement: Teachers can motivate students by integrating digital literacy into
engaging lessons that connect with their interests. This can include project-based learning that
utilizes digital tools, thereby making learning relevant and exciting.

Training and Workshops: Conducting targeted training sessions for both students and educators
can significantly improve digital literacy. These workshops can cover various topics, such as safe
internet practices, digital communication, and content creation.

Integration into Curriculum: Digital literacy should not be treated as a standalone subject but
integrated into various subjects. For instance, using digital tools in language arts or social studies
can help students see the relevance of these skills in real-world contexts.

Utilizing Library Resources: School libraries can play a crucial role by providing access to
digital resources and offering classes that teach essential digital skills. Libraries often host
workshops and provide access to technology, which can be invaluable for students.

Parental Strategies
Modeling Responsible Behavior: Parents can set a positive example by demonstrating
responsible online behavior. This includes discussing their own digital habits and the importance
of maintaining a positive digital footprint.

Setting Boundaries: Establishing healthy limits on screen time and encouraging a balance
between online and offline activities can help youth develop self-regulation skills. Involving
adolescents in setting these boundaries fosters a sense of responsibility.

Encouraging Critical Thinking: Parents should teach their children to critically evaluate online
information. This includes questioning the credibility of sources and understanding the
implications of sharing content online.

Engaging in Open Dialogues: Regular discussions about online safety, the risks of cyberbullying,
and the importance of empathy in digital interactions can help youth navigate the complexities of
the online world more effectively.

Leveraging Community Resources: Parents can collaborate with schools and community
organizations to create a supportive environment for developing digital literacy. This can include
participating in community workshops or educational programs designed to improve digital
skills.

By implementing these strategies, educators and parents can work together to enhance digital
literacy among youth, ensuring they are well-prepared to engage with technology responsibly
and effectively.

In Conclusion

Ghana's journey towards leveraging technology and innovation for national development is both
critical and multifaceted. The country's relatively underdeveloped national innovation system
presents challenges, yet it also offers opportunities for significant growth. By modernizing
research and development institutions, investing in education, and fostering a skilled workforce,
Ghana can harness the potential of frontier technologies such as AI and biotechnology to drive
economic growth and improve quality of life.
Youth-led tech initiatives exemplify the innovative spirit of Ghana's younger population,
addressing societal challenges and contributing to economic transformation. These initiatives not
only enhance productivity across various sectors but also promote inclusivity and social equity.
However, to fully realize these benefits, it is essential to bridge the digital skills gap and ensure
equitable access to technology.

A collaborative effort among government, academia, industry, and civil society is vital to create
a supportive ecosystem that nurtures innovation and empowers the youth. By prioritizing
strategic investments in technology and education, Ghana can position itself as a competitive
player in the global digital economy, ultimately fostering sustainable development and
improving the well-being of its citizens.

REFERENCES

Greenhalgh, C.j & Rogers, M. (2010). Innovation, Intellectual Properties and economic growth.
Princeton, N.J.: Princeton University Press

Albiman M.M., Julong Z. of technology

Barro R..J. Economic growth in a cross section of Countries. Q.J.Econs, 1991;106(2); 407-443

Brynjolbo E;Horton J.J;ozimek; A; Rock D;Sharma G.,Tuye H.-Y.

Castellacic F. Closing the technology gap?

Rev. Dev. Econ. 2011: 15(1) ; 180-197.