Digitalization stands as a driving force behind the advancement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) worldwide, fostering significant progress across various sectors.

Digital tools and resources have the potential to reform the delivery of public services and advance overall digital transformation. In Ghana, the drive  for  digitalization has exemplified the nation's commitment to harnessing technological advancements to enhance the delivery of inclusive and efficient public services.

Improved capacity to navigate and harness digital tools effectively has been identified as crucial in driving socioeconomic growth and fostering innovation. As a result, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) together with the National Information Technology Agency (NITA), with the support of the Ministry of Communications and Digitalization (MOCD) have strengthened the capacity of various government agencies to equip them with the necessary skills and expertise to accelerate inclusive digital transformation in Ghana.

“As technology rapidly evolves in today's ever-changing landscape, it requires new skills and knowledge. UNDP is committed to supporting Ghana's digital progress by collaborating with its national partners, aiming to empower development through innovative digital solutions and skill development in the face of rapidly evolving technology,” noted Edward Ampratwum, Head of Governance & Inclusive Growth.

The training aimed to improve the capacity of officials from across government institutions on digital public goods and digital public infrastructure concepts, shedding light on their role in the country's digital landscape. Digital public goods are open-source software, open data, open AI models, open standards and open content that adhere to privacy and other applicable best practices, to do no harm and help attain the SDGs.

Participants at the training underscored the importance of such capacity building exercises. 

Musah Issah, Director of Regulatory Affairs at NITA noted that “the training had broadened my perspective on digital infrastructure and public goods. Learning from this session would significantly influence my strategic approach in shaping and implementing regulatory policies for the digital sector.

He emphasized that the knowledge gained would be instrumental in optimizing his techniques and practices for more effective governance within the rapidly evolving digital landscape.

The training had participants from 10 government agencies. They were taken through topics such as digital public goods standards/requirements for registration, developing a prototype open standard or pilot for inclusive digital transformation, AI and digital transformation in government, and managing digital technology risks.

The facilitators at the training included Mr. Seth Akumani, Head of Exploration at UNDP Ghana, Avinash Meetoo, a consultant, and Jacqueline Tsuma, UNDP Nigeria Digital Country Support Lead.