IT

Ghana is well positioned as an outsourcing location for IT and related services in Africa, with several companies(including Swiss ones) operating out of Accra and the surrounding areas. The sector shows great growth potential,with interesting areas of activity including data analysis, AI and software engineering. Some of the identified pilots are around dual VET, skills for the IT export industry, digital literacy (as part of an entry strategy to ensure access to the digital world leaves no one behind).

Background

Ghana is emerging as a competitive hub for Information Technology (IT) and digital services in West Africa, buoyed by its youthful population, growing tech ecosystem, and strategic investments in digital infrastructure. The country has seen a steady rise in IT-enabled services (ITES) and business process outsourcing (BPO), with Accra ranking among the top African cities for technology outsourcing. According to the International Trade Centre, Ghana’s BPO market has the potential to employ over 100,000 people, generating significant foreign exchange and fostering innovation.

Despite this promising trajectory, the sector faces a persistent mismatch between industry demand and the available workforce. While global trends point to rising opportunities in areas such as data analysis, artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and software engineering, many young Ghanaians lack the technical and soft skills required to participate meaningfully in these high-growth fields. Digital literacy, especially among underserved populations, also remains uneven, posing an inclusion challenge in the digital transformation journey.

To fully harness the potential of the IT sector as a driver of youth employment and economic development, Ghana must strengthen its talent pipeline through quality education, industry-aligned training, and inclusive access to digital tools.

Swisscontact Ghana’s Approach and Interventions

Swisscontact Ghana is contributing to Ghana’s digital transformation by supporting young people to build relevant skills for the evolving IT landscape. Through its work in skills development and private sector engagement, Swisscontact identifies entry points to strengthen the talent pipeline for digital and tech-enabled jobs. The approach focuses on improving access to quality training, enhancing employability, and fostering connections between learners and industry.

The IT pillar is geared toward addressing gaps in digital literacy, technical know-how, and employment readiness. By working closely with training providers, businesses, and other ecosystem actors, Swisscontact ensures that interventions are aligned with market needs and inclusive of underrepresented groups, including women and youth in marginalized communities.

Code Connect, the flagship initiative under the IT pillar, is designed to provide practical, industry-relevant training in digital and coding skills. It equips young people with competencies in areas such as web and mobile development, digital tools, and freelancing essentials, while also connecting them to real-world opportunities through mentorships, internships, and job linkages. Code Connect aims to create a pathway for youth to actively participate in the digital economy—both locally and globally.

Brands

Code Connect
As Ghana emerges as a promising outsourcing hub for IT and related services, the demand for digital skills continues to rise. Yet, a significant skills gap persists—particularly in high-growth areas like data analysis, AI, and software engineering. While Ghana’s youth hold great potential, many lack access to structured training opportunities. Addressing this gap is essential to ensure inclusive participation in the digital economy, especially for young people in underserved communities.

Events and Articles

Ghana
30.04.2025
Code Connect: Ghana’s Bold Step Toward Digital Inclusion
As part of Swisscontact Ghana’s broader Umbrella Approach aligned with Strategy 2028, the Information Technology (IT) pillar stands out as a driving force for digital inclusion and innovation. Recognizing Ghana’s growing potential as an outsourcing hub for tech services, Swisscontact is investing in long-term strategic partnerships that equip young people with the digital skills needed to thrive in today’s knowledge economy. Through initiatives like CodeConnect, the organization is helping bridge the digital divide, foster local talent, and build a future where technology empowers economic participation across communities in Ghana.