GCTU Congregation: Innovation must drive inclusion — Apaak tells GCTU graduates

Deputy Education Minister Dr. Clement Apaak has told graduates of the Ghana Communication Technology University (GCTU) that Ghana’s technological progress must be anchored in inclusion and national equity.

Addressing the 35th Congregation of GCTU in Accra on November 29 on behalf of the Minister for Education, Haruna Iddrisu, Dr. Apaak said innovation has become the defining currency of national development, but warned that technology must never widen existing inequalities.

“We are living in a time when digital tools, Fintech and artificial intelligence are transforming every sector,” he said. “But this transformation must work for every Ghanaian, not just a privileged few.”

Dr. Apaak stressed that innovation should act as a bridge connecting rural communities to global opportunities and enabling girls and persons with disabilities to learn with dignity.

“Our progress must be equitable,” he noted. “Innovation must function as a bridge that links aspiration to opportunity for all.”

He highlighted government interventions such as Free SHS, the no-fee-stress initiative and free education for persons living with disabilities, stating that these must be supported by a stronger commitment to inclusive education.

“This is not charity,” he said. “It is a vital strategy for national strength.”

The Deputy Minister pointed to persistent obstacles in rural communities, including limited infrastructure, economic disadvantage among girls, and the need for accessible learning tools for persons with disabilities. He argued that addressing these barriers is essential to sustaining Ghana’s digital growth.

“Some communities are being held back by structural gaps,” he said. “If we ignore these gaps, we undermine the country’s potential.”

Government, he assured, is investing in robust digital infrastructure in underserved areas, accessible curricula with local language support, and assistive technologies to aid learners who require them.

He added that targeted teacher training and public-private partnerships will be expanded to improve digital access.

“Connectivity and devices must reach every corner of the country,” he said. “We cannot build a modern Ghana by leaving entire groups behind.”

Turning to the graduating class, Dr. Apaak urged them to commit to inclusive thinking, sustainable building and mentoring others.

“Ask yourself in every project: who might this leave behind?” he advised. “Let your conscience guide your creativity, not just profit.”

He praised parents, guardians and lecturers for their sacrifices and commended the GCTU administration for nurturing the next generation of Ghanaian innovators.

“Your university has given you both skill and vision,” he told the graduates. “Now use technology to uplift communities and help build a Ghana where prosperity is genuinely shared.”