Computer literacy is the ability of individuals to effectively use and navigate computers and related technologies. It encompasses a basic understanding of computer hardware, software applications, and digital tools.
A computer-literate individual can perform fundamental tasks such as operating a computer, using word processing software, browsing the internet, sending emails and managing files and folders.
In today’s digital age, computer literacy has become an essential skill for people of all ages and across various professions. It enables individuals to access information, communicate efficiently, and participate actively in the digital world.
Moreover, computer literacy fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity, empowering individuals to adapt to technological advancements and leverage digital tools to enhance productivity and knowledge.
In the vibrant landscapes of rural Ghana, where traditions and culture have stood the test of time, a new wave of empowerment is emerging. Computer literacy, once considered a privilege exclusive to urban areas, is now reaching the young girls of rural communities, igniting hope and potential for a brighter future.
For a while now, Ghanaian rural children have not received practical ICT education. The government’s ICT curriculum makes it clear that these students must acquire this knowledge as soon as possible because it is a fundamental tool that every child in Ghana needs.
The majority of kids, however, do not appear to enjoy this opportunity. On the fourth Thursday in April, International Girls in ICT Day is observed to highlight the  value of girls in I.C.T. and to encourage more girls and young women to pursue STEM fields of study.
By bridging the digital divide and fostering equal opportunities, initiatives aimed at promoting computer literacy among young girls are paving the way for their inclusion in the global digital age.
The Digital Divide and Gender Disparities
Access to technology and digital resources has been a persistent challenge in rural Ghana. Limited infrastructures, lack of awareness and economic constraints have contributed to the digital divide, disproportionately affecting young girls. Traditionally, girls in these communities are expected to focus on household chores and agricultural activities, which hinder their ability to access education, let alone computer literacy.
According to Maxwell Peprah’s research, 96.1 percent of pupils lacked access to ICT labs for hands-on instruction in the Ashanti Region of Ghana in 2016. The majority of children lacked adequate access to literature, computers and the internet. Major obstacles to ICT expansion in rural regions included a lack of electricity and internet connection.
Because they lacked the necessary practical expertise of technology, 65 percent of students found it challenging to comprehend the course.
In Ghana, men are more likely than women to own phones with Internet access, with 63 percent of men having one compared to 49 percent of women, according to data provided by Afro Barometer, a pan-African, non-partisan, non-profit survey research network that offers trustworthy data on Africans’ experiences and evaluations of democracy, governance, and quality of life.
In contrast, only 40% of people who live in rural areas have mobile phones with internet access. 66 percent of metropolitan residents have.
The information also suggests that there is very limited access to computers. 20% of Ghanaians, or 2 out of 10 people, own computers. Comparatively fewer men (26%) and urban (27%) and younger (24%) people (24%) own computers. In comparison to 83 to 90% of women in the same time period, between 2019 and 2022, between 92 and 95 percent of men had a mobile phone.
Inadequate Digital Access in Rural Ghana
Between 2019 and 2022, only 34 to 40 percent of people in rural Ghana have access to internet connectivity, compared to 59 to 66 percent of people living in urban regions. Only 10 percent of people in rural communities possess computers, compared to 24 percent of people in urban areas.
Only 18% of Ghanaians had completed their secondary school as of 2022, while only 54% had completed their post-secondary education. Connectivity alone is insufficient to teach the general public how to use technology; we also need literacy in this area.
More so than anybody else, women and girls require unrestricted connectivity and online safety. It might be argued that investing in girls’ education will help most of these rural communities achieve their goal of long-term poverty eradication.
Reasons behind the Digital Gender Division challenges Faced by Young Girls in accessing computer education;
Socio-cultural norms: Deep-rooted gender norms often dictate that education and technological pursuits are better suited for boys, reinforcing gender inequality.
Lack of role models: The absence of female tech role models and mentors can hinder girls from envisioning a future in technology-related fields.
Limited resources: Schools in rural areas often lack adequate facilities, qualified teachers, and the necessary equipment to impart computer education effectively.
Initiatives Promoting Computer Literacy:
Establishing Community Computer Centers: NGOs and government agencies are setting up community computer centers in rural areas, which are providing access to computers, internet connectivity, computer literacy programs. These centers are designed to be safe spaces where girls can explore technology without judgment or discrimination.
Encouraging Female Tech Instructors: Training and employing female instructors and facilitators are essential to create a welcoming environment that supports and motivates young girls to learn computer skills.
Introducing Technology Clubs: Introducing technology clubs in schools encourages girls to participate in fun and interactive activities related to computers. These clubs also serve as platforms for building confidence and camaraderie among participants.
Mobile Computer Labs: Mobile computer labs that travel to different rural communities are an effective way to reach girls who may face travel barriers or lack access to nearby educational facilities.
Online Learning Resources: Curating online learning resources and video tutorials in local languages makes learning more accessible and engaging for young girls.
Impact and Benefits
The impact of promoting computer literacy among young girls in rural Ghana is multi-faceted: Increased Opportunities: Computer literacy equips young girls with essential skills for the modern job market, opening up opportunities beyond traditional gender roles.
Empowerment and Confidence: As girls gain proficiency in technology, they develop confidence in their abilities, breaking free from societal constraints.
Gender Equality: By empowering girls with digital skills, communities challenge gender norms and contribute to fostering a more inclusive and equitable society.
Community Development: Digitally literate girls can contribute to community development through information sharing, online entrepreneurship, and knowledge dissemination.
Promoting computer literacy among young girls in rural Ghana is an investment in the future of the nation. By empowering these girls with essential skills, we can break down barriers, foster gender equality, and drive progress in the digital age.
Through collaborative efforts from government, NGOs and local communities we can ensure that no girl is left behind, and every young mind has the opportunity to shape their own destiny in the digital world.
