Google Student Ambassador Program launched in Ghana

Wednesday, April 13th, 2011:

Google today announced the launch of the Google Student Ambassador Program in Ghana as part of their commitment to empower the African academic community with knowledge, infrastructure and tools to help access information easily and effectively. The program invites students enrolled in Ghanaian Universities to represent Google for one academic year tenure on their respective campuses.

This year, Google has selected 20 Ambassadors from 5 universities in Ghana; Kwame Nkrumah University of Science & Technology, University of Ghana, Legon (including the Business School), University of Cape Coast, Ashesi University and the Central University College. An Ambassador Welcome Day was held in Accra to introduce the students to the program.

Speaking about the Programme, Google Ghana Country Lead, Estelle Akofio-Sowah said, “The Ambassadors are group of motivated and bright students, who are eager to set the standard as the first group of African Ambassadors for Google in their region. They understand the value that the internet offers to students, and are committed to educating others about useful Google products - especially collaborative tools - to help make their fellow students' lives easier.”

The Student Ambassadors, equipped with vibrant personalities and a sound familiarity with technology, will work closely with the Google teams to organise events and help raise awareness among African students about the opportunities and value of Google and the Internet.

Speaking about their appointment as Ambassadors the Google Ambassadors said:

Opuku Papa Kwabena, studying Computer Science at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology:

I am very enthusiastic about technology and the promise it holds for the future. And so too, I notice, is Google; the company's technological endeavors speak volumes about their keen interest in information technology. I find Google's vast array of products both useful and fun. I once tracked my journey from Accra to Kumasi using Google Maps just for the thrill. When I found out about Google's search engine's query refinement capabilities (such as the “intext” and “inurl” commands), it made my searching the web exponentially more efficient; suddenly it became possible for me to locate specific resources online with impressive precision. I have even used Google Translate to make sure that I spelled my name correctly in Japanese Katakana characters.

Barbara Gyasi, studying Computer Engineering at University of Ghana, Legon:

As a young lady studying Computer Engineering in the university, I have a strong desire to acquire knowledge in Computing in every possible way and to use that knowledge to positively influence others around me. I have always been fascinated with Google and how its determined young people are striving to make a difference in the technological world. I have been waiting for an opportunity to be a part of this force that is stirring the whole world.

To learn more about the Ambassador and other university programs, visit http://www.google.com/africa/universityprograms/