‘Stay Competitive With Digital Skills’

Ebenezer Terkpeh

 

THE EDUCATION Portfolio Advisor at MTN Ghana, Ebenezer Terkpeh, has called on youth to prioritise digital skills for career-readiness to stay competitive in the evolving job market.

Speaking at the grand finale of the 2025 National Youth Mentorship Summit and Awards at the University of Ghana, Accra, Mr. Terkpeh stated that possessing digital skills enhances employability and competitiveness in a rapidly changing job market, emphasising that digital skills empower the youth to develop innovative solutions, products, and services, fostering entrepreneurship and creativity.

Sighting MTN’s transformation journey from a telecom provider into a technology-driven company, Mr. Terkpeh indicated that, “MTN is no longer just a call and SMS company. We are now a technology-driven organisation. To stay competitive and avoid outsourcing we must build local talent capable of driving innovation.”

He mentioned that through the MTN Skills Academy, it offers free, globally recognised courses in cybersecurity, data analytics, programming, and more. Developed in partnership with Coursera, the platform enables learners to earn certificates from institutions such as the University of Chicago and the University of the Witwatersrand.

Mr. Terkpeh also introduced the Career Guidance Platform, which helps students discover career paths aligned with their interests while equipping them with essential soft skills such as communication, branding, and workplace readiness.

“MTN continues to support participants after course completion by connecting them to job fairs, internships, and employment opportunities through its partner network,” he added.

The Senior Manager for Corporate Communications at MTN Ghana, Georgina Asare Fiagbenu, reinforced the company’s broader commitment to Africa’s development through youth empowerment.

“This initiative is not limited to Ghana. It’s part of a pan-African strategy targeting one million learners, with Ghana aiming for at least 100,000,” she said. “Whether you are a doctor, an entrepreneur, or a creative artist, digital skills help you grow, connect, and stay relevant.”

She added that Africa’s youthful population holds tremendous potential and must be equipped with the right tools to succeed in a digital economy.

The MTN Skills Academy and Career Guidance Platform are flagship programmes under MTN Ghana Foundation, the company’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) arm.

As part of the summit’s climax, selected students were recognised for their exceptional participation, leadership, and innovative thinking. Some received airtime and souvenirs from MTN Ghana as a gesture of encouragement and support.

By Prince Fiifi Yorke