Inclusive Tech Group (ITG), a leading organisation dedicated to promoting digital inclusion for persons with disabilities in Ghana is undertaking free digital skills training to 100 women with disabilities in Somanya, Yilo Krobo District, Eastern Region. The initiative is made possible through the support of UNESCO and the MasterCard Foundation.
The DARE Project training programme, which began in June, is presently underway in Somanya, with 60 participants having successfully completed the training to date.
Participants, aged between 18 and 45, have been organized into five cohorts of twenty (20) trainees each. Over five days, they receive hands-on instruction in key areas such as basic computer skills, business and financial management, branding, introductory graphic design, and digital marketing.
The programme was intentionally inclusive, serving a diverse group of women, including those with physical disabilities, visual impairments, hearing impairments, albinism, cerebral palsy, and autism.
Prior to the training, participants underwent a screening process to identify their specific disability types and individual needs. This allowed the organisers to develop a tailor-made curriculum, ensuring maximum impact and relevance.
To facilitate the long-term application of the newly acquired skills, Inclusive Tech Group has partnered with a local information centre, providing participants with access to computers and internet connectivity for continued practice and learning.
Beneficiaries expressed their gratitude for the transformative training. Many, who had never used a computer before, highlighted the profound impact the programme had on their lives, affording them opportunities they previously thought impossible.
“I had never touched a computer before, but through this training, I can now use it to do so many things. I have also learned about good customer service and saving”, said Emelia Narkie Narh.
Mary Dede Oduro, a visually impaired student at the University of Environment and Sustainable Development, shared her personal experience: “As a visually impaired student, I struggled to use the computer, but through this training, I can now operate it with ease.”
The participants also praised the facilitators for their patience and dedication, especially in supporting slower learners and those with visual impairments.
According to the Project Coordinator for Inclusive Tech Group, Mr. Joseph Aboagye, “These women have been trained to utilise laptops and various digital tools. They received comprehensive training in digital marketing, learning how to create logos, flyers, and establish online businesses.”
“We are thrilled to report that some participants from the first cohort have already launched successful online businesses, demonstrating the practical value of this training. Many have expressed their newfound ability to generate income and improve their livelihoods,” the coordinator added.
For those already engaged in entrepreneurial activities, the training enabled them to expand their reach beyond their local district. Salomey, a pastry chef, shared that she is now receiving orders from as far as Accra, with event organisers contacting her directly.
The Project Coordinator emphasised that this is the core mission of Inclusive Tech Group: “To ensure that every person, irrespective of their ability, can fully participate in society. We are currently exploring opportunities to expand our reach beyond Somanya, contingent on securing further funding and sponsorship.”
Mr. Aboagye called on donor organisations and individual philanthropists to provide support, enabling them to continue impacting the lives of persons with disabilities across the country.
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SOURCE: DisabilityNewsGH.com
Wow. Indeed disability is not inability. I’m proud of you.