The Ghana Youth Tech Summit, held at the Accra Digital Center under the theme "Leveraging Technology for Social Impact," brought together an energetic mix of youth, educators, and innovators to discuss how technology can drive transformative social change.
The event focused on educating the next generation of internet users and equipping them to navigate the digital space responsibly.
Gabriel Ofori Appiah, Director of Safeguarding, Awareness, and Outreach at the Ghana Internet Safety Foundation (GISF), delivered a keynote address that highlighted the dual nature of technology. He underscored its potential to address global challenges, such as education, climate change, and healthcare, while also cautioning against its misuse.
“The digital gadgets we use—we are utilizing only 4% of their potential. The remaining 96% represents the dark web. This is why we must use technology wisely. It can be both good and bad, but the bad often outweighs the good,” he explained.
Appiah emphasized how technology has made education more accessible, noting, “Education can now come to your doorstep through the digital space.”
However, he stressed that navigating the digital world requires caution and purpose. Comparing it to handling a blade, he said that while technology is a valuable tool, it can be harmful if not used with care. He urged young people to act as catalysts for change, leveraging their skills in areas such as web design and robotics to create safer and more impactful digital tools.
Appiah also highlighted the importance of critical thinking in online interactions. He warned against impulsive posting, encouraging participants to reflect on whether their content is helpful, necessary, kind, and impactful. “Nowadays, young people post without thinking, but this can come back to haunt you. Safety is a must, and online abuse is still abuse,” he said.
He discussed various online risks that young people face, including cyberbullying, grooming, sextortion, and addiction. He called for solutions that incorporate advanced technologies like artificial intelligence and robotics to combat these challenges.
Appiah introduced the concept of smart digital practices to promote online safety and responsible behavior. He urged young people to protect personal information, be cautious when meeting others online, verify information and connections, reflect on content before posting, and report any concerning online experiences to trusted adults.
In addition to promoting online safety, Appiah encouraged participants to channel their creativity and resources into technological innovations that drive social impact. He urged them to design safer websites, develop clean energy solutions, and create platforms that foster sustainability and inclusivity.
Concluding his address, Appiah emphasized, “A better internet is a safer internet.” He called on attendees to embrace their roles as digital citizens, using technology to advance positive change while staying vigilant about their safety.
The Ghana Youth Tech Summit provided an inspiring platform for empowering the next generation of leaders to engage with the digital age responsibly. It reinforced the idea that technology, when used wisely, can be a powerful tool for progress and social impact in Ghana and beyond.
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