MTN Ghana has launched its Bright Scholars Alumni Network, connecting over 1,200 past scholarship beneficiaries. This initiative aims to foster mentorship and career development among young Ghanaians. The telecom giant also committed to providing 1,500 new scholarships over the next three years.
This year alone, MTN will award 500 of these new scholarships. The expanded support package includes tuition, accommodation, laptops, and stipends for books. This commitment addresses the financial barriers many talented students face in accessing higher education.
The launch of the alumni network and the new scholarship commitment fit into Ghana’s broader economic narrative of youth unemployment and skills development. Ghana’s job market sees over 100,000 graduates annually, making it highly competitive. Initiatives like MTN’s help equip young people with essential skills and networks for success. They also contribute to building a skilled workforce crucial for national development.
Madam Adwoa Wiafe, MTN Ghana’s Chief Corporate Services and Sustainability Officer, unveiled the network. She stated the Bright Scholarship programme has supported 1,222 students since 2017. Among these, 299 graduated with first-class honours, demonstrating the programme's impact. Ms. Wiafe emphasized that the network will provide mentorship, CV reviews, and job connections. This bridges the gap for scholars who lack inherited professional networks.
The new scholarships will also support teachers upgrading their qualifications. This dual focus on students and educators strengthens the country's human capital. It ensures a pipeline of well-trained professionals and improved teaching standards. The investment reflects a long-term view on educational infrastructure.
Mr. Abdallah Ibrahim, General Manager for HR Operations & Analytics at MTN Ghana, highlighted the changing world of work. He noted continuous learning is now the most important career asset. Mr. Ibrahim advised graduates not to be limited by their first degree. He stressed the importance of additional skills and problem-solving abilities for employers. His own career path from Accounting to Human Resources exemplifies this adaptability.
Employers no longer hire based solely on certificates, Mr. Ibrahim explained. He urged young people to continue learning and developing new competencies. This is vital for navigating a dynamic job market. MTN itself is evolving from a traditional telecom company to a digital platform business. This shift creates demand for skills in data analytics, cybersecurity, and product management. These are areas where continuous learning is paramount.
Mrs. Georgina Asare Fiagbenu, Acting General Manager for Sustainability and Shared Value, urged the newly elected executives to protect members' interests. She also encouraged Ghanaian youth to use technology productively. Platforms like the MTN Skills Academy offer courses in digital skills. This transforms phones from mere entertainment devices into tools for skill acquisition. The network aims to build a lasting legacy by maintaining a mentor register and tracking impact. This ensures accountability and continued relevance for its members. The commitment to 1,500 new scholarships over three years represents a significant investment in Ghana's future workforce. It underscores MTN's role in addressing critical educational and employment challenges.