Ghana is encouraging young athletes to develop technology and digital skills alongside their sporting talents, with the Ministry of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations highlighting the importance of preparing students for opportunities beyond the playing field.
The ministry recently welcomed students and coaches from the Right to Dream Academy, showcasing how the institution combines football training with education in robotics, artificial intelligence and other technology disciplines.
Although the academy is best known for producing professional footballers, its students have also earned recognition for their achievements in innovation. The academy’s technology team won first place at Ghana’s national AI for Good competition and secured second place in the senior category at the Robofest 2026 World Championship, demonstrating its growing strength in science and technology education.
Speaking during the visit, Samuel Nartey George, Ghana’s Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, praised the academy’s approach to blending sports with academic and technical learning. He said digital literacy and technology skills can provide young athletes with valuable career opportunities and educational pathways beyond professional sports.
The minister stressed that equipping students with expertise in science and technology helps prepare them for a rapidly evolving digital economy while complementing their athletic development.
The ministry also recognised the contributions of corporate partners supporting the academy’s technology initiatives. The MTN Ghana Foundation and Telecel Ghana Foundation were commended for helping the students participate in an upcoming international competition in Geneva.
As part of its support for the academy, the ministry announced plans to donate 30 laptops to improve its computer laboratory facilities. It also confirmed that the students will be enrolled in the government’s One Million Coders Programme, an initiative designed to expand coding and digital skills among young people across Ghana.
The collaboration reflects the country’s broader strategy to strengthen digital literacy and encourage greater participation in science, technology, engineering and innovation. By combining sports with technology education, Ghana aims to equip students with diverse skills that can support long-term career success and contribute to the nation’s digital transformation.
