President John Mahama has encouraged the youth of Ghana to fully embrace the 1 Million Coders programme, calling it a key step towards national transformation through digital skills and innovation.

Speaking at the official launch of the programme on Wednesday, April 16, President Mahama said, “To the youth of Ghana, I say this programme is for you, take it and own it. Let this be your launch pad into innovation, entrepreneurship and global relevance.”

He urged young people to see themselves as more than just beneficiaries. “You are not just participants in this initiative, you are the architects of Ghana’s digital future,” he stated.

According to the President, this first cohort already reflects commitment to gender balance and regional inclusivity.

"The first cohort of 560 trainees launching in Accra, Kumasi, Sunyani, Bolgatanga already reflects our commitment to gender balance and regional inclusivity," he said.

Public interest in the programme has been overwhelming. President Mahama revealed that “within just 48 hours of opening applications, over 50,000 young Ghanaians registered their interest,” with the Communications Minister later updating the number to 90,000.

“This overwhelming response is a powerful reminder of the hunger for opportunities and the urgency of the task ahead of us,” he said.

To ensure equal access, the President announced that training centres will soon be activated at community information centres across all metropolitan, municipal and district assemblies.

“This decentralised approach ensures that no matter where you live, in the city or in a remote village, you will have access to the 1 Million Coders Programme,” he explained.

He also highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen digital infrastructure.

“We are also building the digital infrastructure required to support this vision, from broadband expansion to the provision of devices and learning platforms. Every layer of this initiative has been designed for skill and for sustainability,” the President said.

President Mahama wrapped up his address with a message about Ghana’s future.

“We are changing the national narrative from one of limitations to one of limitless potential from a country that consumes imported technologies to a country that creates its own. From young people waiting for jobs to young people creating jobs. This is how to build a resilient and future-ready Ghana,” he said.