Lady Evelyn Oye Lamptey, an Air Traffic Controller and a Girl Child activist has underscored the need for female students to embrace technology as a catalyst for national development.
She made this assertion while delivering a speech as a Guest Speaker at the 97th Anniversary, and Speech and Prize-Giving celebration at the Krobo Girls’ Senior High School, at Krobo-Odumase in the Eastern Region, Ghana.
The Speaker urged female students to embrace technology as a yardstick for developing, harnessing and sharpening their potentials as future leaders.
Speaking on the theme “Moulding our future human resources; beauty and excellence”, she indicated that, the 97th Anniversary of Krobo Girls’ Senior High School is not just a celebration of a milestone in the history of the institution but also, a reminder to students of the rich legacy inherited.
According to her, “we cannot talk about moulding our future Human Resource; beauty and excellence, without observing the new normal which is technology”.
She mentioned that in this era of rapid advancement, technology is changing faster than we can imagine, new challenges everywhere, the unexpected increasing the norms, and for that matter we cannot hide from these changes.
On her part, technology has become the cornerstone of progress, permeating every aspect of our lives. It has revolutionized industries, changed how we communicate, work, and even think. But amidst this digital revolution, there lies a critical need for diverse perspectives and voices to shape its trajectory.
“As young Ladies, technology is not just a tool; it is a catalyst for change, you are the architects of tomorrow, the leaders of the digital age. You have the opportunity to leverage technology to amplify your voices, pursue your passions, and access resources and opportunities previously out of reach”, she urged.
Empowering the students, she said their participation in the realm of technology is not just desirable; it is imperative. As we navigate complex challenges such as climate change, healthcare, and social inequality, your innovative ideas and unique insights will be invaluable in finding sustainable solutions.
Urging them about their future ambitions, she noted that, the future is not something to be predicted but something to be created, and with your brilliance and determination, I have no doubt that the future you create will be nothing short of extraordinary.
“I urge you to embrace technology not merely as users but as creators, innovators, and problem solvers. Embrace the opportunities that technology affords, but never lose sight of your humanity. Let your voices be heard, your ideas be realized, and your impact be felt”, she reiterated.
She empowered the students to shape a future where technology empowers and enriches the lives of all. Whether it is coding, AI, artificial intelligence, or any other field, let your curiosity guide you. Do not be intimidated by stereotypes or perceived barriers. Your potential knows no bounds.
“As future leaders, you have the responsibility to ensure that technology serves the greater good, leaving no one behind. But with great power comes great responsibility. As you embark on this journey, uphold ethical standards, prioritize privacy and security, and remain vigilant against biases embedded within technology”, she admonished.
Inspiring inclusion, she charged them to challenge stereotypes and break down barriers that limit girls’ aspirations and opportunities. Too often, societal norms and biases constrain girls’ ambitions, steering them away from traditionally male-dominated fields such as STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics).
“Ladies and gentlemen, as we strive for gender equality, we must work tirelessly to dismantle these barriers, creating environments where girls feel encouraged and supported to pursue their passions and fulfill their potential, regardless of societal expectations. We must challenge stereotypes and biases that perpetuate the notion that certain careers are more suited to boys than girls. By providing girls with equal opportunities, encouragement, and support to pursue their passions”, she observed.
She appealed to governments to address the systemic barriers that hinder girls’ access to education and opportunities.
This,she said includes combating gender stereotypes, addressing cultural norms that perpetuate discrimination, and dismantling legal and institutional barriers that limit girls’ rights and freedoms (taxes on sanitary towels).