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‘Be courageous, enthusiastic’ – Ebo Whyte inspires young software developers
Ghanaian playwright and author, Mr James Ebo Whyte, has advised newly trained software developers to exhibit courage and enthusiasm as they step into the world of work.
He stressed the importance of staying organised and delivering on promises to persons within and outside professional networks as technprenuers applied their skills to solve problems.
The renowned speaker was addressing participants at the 4th edition of Codetrain Africa Tech Career Seminar in Accra, where about 96 trainees who had acquired skills in software development were awarded certificates.
Codetrain Africa is a leading coding bootcamp dedicated to providing hands-on training to young people. The ‘Demo Day’ event saw trainees demonstrate various mobile and web-based applications meant to provide real life solutions.
Speaking at the forum, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Roverman Productions, said there were codes to life just as computers and softwares had their own programming.
Defining the “codes” to life, he said the trainees must strive to apply the principles of confidence, organisation, delivery and enthusiasm as they aim to excel in their respective fields.
“Life is about courage; if you do not have courage, you may as well give up. Life is not for the timid, the timid wins nothing. Leave here with the understanding of the importance of courage; without that, nothing will happen,” he stated.
Pointing out other attributes required for personal and professional growth, he urged the students to position themselves as persons who deliver results beyond expectations.
Uncle Ebo observed that some people took delight in being “disorganised” but software developers should learn to organise their lives, thoughts and time as they continue to be creative.
“In life you can sail or you can drift; the ship that is drifting is not different from the ship that is sailing – the difference is in the results. The ship that is drifting never gets to its destination; the ship that is sailing gets to a destination,” he stressed.
To this end, the theater practitioner tasked the graduands to define a clear path for their lives, maintain a good work-life balance in order to remain productive.
“In your business, character pays because that is how you get recommendations. Enthusiasm makes all the difference. It is your power; it will make people notice you,” he said.
Mr Whyte congratulated Codetrain Africa for giving a direction to young people to tap opportunities in the technology industry.
Some of the softwares presented by the students, at the end of the 12-month course, included applications that simplify payment processes, expense tracking applications, money saving applications, bus ticketing, and loan management platforms.
Mr Richard Brandt, Chief Executive Officer, Codetrain Africa, said talent knows no boundaries, therefore, empowering the youth with coding skills was a step to nurturing future leaders, innovators and change makers.
“These young minds are now equipped to contribute to the global tech ecosystem, bringing diverse perspectives and impactful solutions.
“Our commitment extends beyond the classroom. We aspire to bridge the gap between potential and opportunity, ensuring that Africa youth not participate but lead in shaping the digital future,” he said.
He added that Codetrain Africa, delivering its mission, has trained over 600 people with 89 percent gaining employment with local and international companies within nine months after graduation.
Mr Kena Amoah, CEO, MITA, also advised the graduate continue sharpening their skills and form partnerships to enable them grow in the industry.
“It is always better to succeed together. People will contribute to your success and you will contribute to other people’s success. Stay humble and learn from those ahead of you,” he said.
Entertainment
Demolition of Fantasy Dome unfair — Mark Okraku-Mantey
Months after the Fantasy Dome was dismantled to make way for construction at the Ghana International Trade Fair site, the Deputy Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mr Mark Okraku-Mantey, has expressed concern over the manner the facility was destroyed.
In an interview on Daybreak Hitz with Andy Dosty, Mr Okraku-Mantey criticised the handling of the dome’s dismantling, suggesting that it could have been done without causing damage.
“I don’t think that leadership gave instructions that they should do what happened. The structure was a prefab but I hear the people destroyed it. That one, we cannot defend it. It is unfair to him (owner). Sometimes, you give instructions and people will go and do things that will make you look bad,” he stated.
When asked about any punitive measure against the workers responsible for the destruction, Mr Okraku-Mantey clarified that the Trade Fair does not fall under his ministry.
He said he had previously contacted the owner, Leslie Quaynor, to discuss relocating the dome, and even suggested the National Museum as a potential site, though it was too small.
The demolition of the 20,000-seater Fantasy Dome occurred on March 16, 2024.
According to Dr Agnes Adu, CEO of the Ghana Trade Fair Company Limited, the action was taken after multiple notices were given to Quaynor to vacate the premises for redevelopment, as per their tenancy agreement.
Dr Adu noted that all previous tenants had complied except for the Fantasy Dome.
Quaynor, in an interview with JoyNews, confirmed that his lease had ended, and was in the process of relocating the dome.
He had requested an extension, which was denied, leading him to seek a writ and an injunction from an Accra High Court to halt the demolition.
Despite this, the demolition proceeded, causing significant damage to the structure.
Quaynor described the incident as a major setback, not only for his business but also for the entertainment industry, which relies on venues like the Fantasy Dome.
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Youth urged to take proactive stance on ozone depletion
•Mr Joseph Amankwah, first counting from, some officials from EPA and UNDP in group picture with the student
Mr Joseph Amankwah, the Director of Ozone Layer and Climate Change at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), has urged the youth to take a proactive stance on issues related to ozone depletion, emphasising that their future would be most affected by its consequences.
Speaking during a student engagement event at the Ghana Secondary School (GHANASS) in Koforidua, he highlighted the critical role young people played in tackling climate-related challenges.
Mr Amankwah explained that human activities, such as the use of certain chemicals, were significantly contributing to the depletion of the ozone layer and driving climate change.
He said it was important to educate the youth on these issues, encouraging them to share this knowledge with their families to foster a broader understanding and active participation in climate action.
He urged the education sector to integrate lessons on the ozone layer, the causes of its depletion, and its links to climate change into the curriculum.
The event, organised by the EPA in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), was designed to foster environmental awareness and promote a sense of responsibility among young people.
Mr Amankwah noted that ozone layer depletion was affecting everyone, including children, as it alters weather patterns and threatens the natural environment.
He highlighted the need for young people to develop ‘green skills’ to adapt to the challenges of climate change and to understand ways to combat it.
He added that World Ozone Day, observed every September, would focus on youth engagement in environmental issues, to help them understand the long-term consequences of ozone depletion and climate change.
Mr Amankwah also discussed the harmful impact of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), a major chemical contributor to ozone depletion.
He explained that household appliances such as refrigerators and air conditioners were common sources of CFC emissions in Ghana.
Many uncertified technicians work on these appliances, often releasing harmful chemicals into the atmosphere due to improper handling, he noted.
To address this, he urged appliance repairers to obtain proper certification and training, emphasising that unqualified repairs not only harm the environment but also endangered public health.
From Ama Tekyiwaa Ampadu Agyeman,
Koforidua
