In Ghana, a significant digital skills gap threatens to hold back a generation of young people eager to participate in the burgeoning tech sector. Recognizing this challenge, iSpace Ghana has partnered with Thompson Nnamdi Ikechukwu (Spark9ja), a UK-based Nigerian AI researcher, to launch a free digital skills program in Ghana. This initiative aims to equip Ghanaian youth with the tools they need to thrive in the age of artificial intelligence. The program focuses on data science, AI, and other emerging technologies, promising to empower youth and foster greater cross-border collaboration. This **digital skills program Ghana** is designed to make a real impact.

The collaboration between iSpace Ghana and Thompson Nnamdi Ikechukwu marks a significant step towards bridging the digital divide. Ikechukwu, the driving force behind Spark9ja, brings a proven model for success from Nigeria to Ghana. “This partnership is about building bridges across Africa,” says Ikechukwu, emphasizing the importance of pan-African collaboration in addressing shared challenges. The program focuses on providing opportunities for young Ghanaians to unlock their potential through digital empowerment, offering a pathway to new careers and innovations.

The free digital skills program offers comprehensive training in several high-demand areas. Participants will receive instruction in data science, artificial intelligence, and a range of emerging technologies that are shaping the future of work. The training will be delivered at the iSpace Innovation Hub in Accra, providing access to a state-of-the-art learning environment. Beyond the core curriculum, the program also includes mentorship, career coaching, and access to fully-funded DataCamp licenses, ensuring that participants have the support they need to succeed.

Spark9ja’s accomplishments in Nigeria serve as a strong foundation for the new program in Ghana. In Nigeria, Spark9ja has already trained over 5,000 youth, achieving an impressive 93% course completion rate and securing virtual internships for many participants. Building on this success, the program in Ghana aims to train at least 500 participants in its first cohort. A key emphasis is placed on inclusion, with a targeted effort to reach women and underserved communities, ensuring that the benefits of digital skills training are shared equitably.

Marian Arthur, Director of Programs at iSpace, highlights the shared vision behind the partnership. “Collaborating with Spark9ja strengthens our shared mission to make tech education more accessible, practical, and inclusive,” she says. “This program provides real opportunities for growth.” iSpace is committed to providing real-world opportunities for growth in the tech sector, and this collaboration is a significant step in that direction.

The 12-week program will culminate in a portfolio showcase and employment readiness session, preparing participants to enter the job market with confidence. This initiative represents a rare and valuable cross-border collaboration between Nigeria and Ghana, demonstrating the power of African nations working together. The potential scalability of the program across other African countries is already attracting considerable interest from diaspora-led tech foundations and private sector sponsors, signaling a bright future for digital skills development on the continent.

Thompson Nnamdi Ikechukwu’s background as a Data Architect at NCFE in the UK and his work with Agrovue, an AI-powered smart farming platform, underscore his commitment to leveraging technology for positive impact. “Agrovue is using AI to empower the food system — just like Spark9ja is using AI to empower people,” he explains, highlighting the common thread that runs through his diverse projects. His focus remains on building confidence, creating opportunity, and fostering innovation across borders, ensuring that Africa is at the forefront of the AI revolution.

In summary, the iSpace-Spark9ja free digital skills program offers a transformative opportunity for Ghanaian youth, providing them with the AI and data science skills they need to succeed in the 21st century. By empowering individuals through education and fostering collaboration across borders, this initiative promises to make a lasting impact on Africa’s tech ecosystem. The program will increase the number of people with **digital skills program Ghana**, leading to new economic opportunities.