From 22nd to 28th June 2025, the vibrant city of Singapore played host to the first-ever International Cybersecurity Olympiad (ICO)—a groundbreaking global competition held at the National University of Singapore (NUS), bringing together some of the world’s brightest young minds in cybersecurity.

Among the 28 countries represented at this prestigious event, Ghana proudly flew its flag high, with a strong contingent of students and coaches from Ghana International School (GIS) and Ghana Christian International High School (GCIHS).

Led by Mr. Abel Ohene Acquaye (Executive Director, Ghana Olympiad Academy) and Mr. Kwesi Osborne-Morson (Teacher/Coach, GIS), the Ghanaian delegation showed great courage, curiosity, and technical grit in tackling one of the most rapidly evolving and complex fields in tech today: cybersecurity.

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Cracking Codes, Defending Networks, and Building Friendships

The competition was no walk in the park. Over several days, students were tested in areas such as:

• Cryptography
  
  
• Digital Forensics
  
  
• Web Exploitation
  
  
• Red Teaming
  
  

Day 2’s practice round was especially intense, designed as a full-blown Capture The Flag (CTF) session that pushed students through challenges in binary exploitation, network vulnerabilities, and malware analysis. “It was exhilarating... and exhausting,” one student admitted with a proud smile. But even through the pressure, the team kept their focus—and their sense of humor.

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Connecting Beyond Firewalls

More than just a technical competition, ICO 2025 served as a melting pot of ideas, innovation, and international friendships. Our students spent time engaging with peers from countries including Bangladesh, Sweden, China, Canada, and South Korea, building bonds that extend far beyond the computer lab.

Between rounds, the team also had the chance to explore Singapore’s iconic landmarks during Excursion Day—from the stunning Gardens by the Bay and Marina Bay Sands to the classic Merlion Park. It wasn’t just about firewalls and packets; it was about perspective, culture, and community.

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Quiet Wins: Recognition Beyond Medals

Though Ghana didn’t return home with medals this time, the value of this experience was undeniable. The real victory came in knowledge gained, confidence built, and the global exposure our students received.

We're especially proud to share that five Ghanaian students placed in the Top 100 globally—a remarkable feat considering it was their first time competing at this level:

• Christian Delassi Kumaga – Ghana Christian International High School
• Ewoenam Koku Agbe – Ghana International School
• Samuel William Ashley – Ghana Christian International High School
• Ethan Nii-Tettey Ashong-Katai - Ghana International School
• Paul Manteaw Anakwa - Ghana Christian International High School
  
  

These students demonstrated not just technical ability, but discipline, resilience, and a hunger to grow—qualities we believe will take them far in future academic and professional pursuits.

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A Foundation for the Future

The ICO, inspired by prestigious competitions like the International Olympiad in Informatics (IOI) and International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO), was created to close the widening global gap in cybersecurity education. With cyber threats growing faster than the talent pool, events like these are crucial in preparing the next generation of digital defenders.

Ghana’s participation marks a milestone moment in our national efforts to build youth capacity in STEM and digital innovation. The Ghana Olympiad Academy remains committed to this mission—ensuring more talented young Ghanaians gain access to world-class platforms like the ICO.

As we look ahead, we are proud of every student, coach, and supporter who made this journey possible. You’ve proven that Ghana doesn’t just have potential—we have presence.