The multi-million-dollar facility has an ITC lounge for free Internet access, free access to computers and a ’Bring your own device section’ with cloud storage.

The centre also has an ICT training room for all forms of intensive training in data science, programming software/digital engineering, special computers for heavy graphics and complex digital tasks.

Further, the IAC has a video conferencing room for seminars, small group meetings and virtual interaction in addition to assistive technology for the vision impaired and the hearing impaired, a broadcast camera for video coverage and live streaming kits for robotics training for young learners. 
               

Minister of Communication and Digitalisation

Performing the ribbon-cutting ceremony, the Minister of Communication and Digitalisation, Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, said the centre was a remarkable effort and stood as a testament to the enduring partnership between Korea and Ghana in advancing education, technology and access to information.

“Korea’s dedication to sharing expertise, resources and technological advancements exemplify the true spirit of international cooperation,” the minister added.

Mrs Owusu-Ekuful said the IAC was a shining example of the transformative potential of technology to uplift communities and empower individuals and expressed gratitude to the government of Korea for its unwavering support and commitment to that venture.

She cited Ghana’s ambitious programme of digital transformation of the economy since taking office in 2017, saying a lot of investment had gone into infrastructure development and the expansion of the Internet and ICT access to every part of the Ghanaian society.

Mrs Ekuful noted that the centre signified not just a physical space, but a bridge connecting nations, cultures and knowledge as it embodied the power of technology in fostering global connections and propelling societies towards greater heights.

“The Korea-Ghana Information Access Centre is not just a building but a repository of knowledge, and a catalyst for progress and will serve as a hub for learning, research, and innovation, nurturing the minds of students, scholars, and the community at large,” she said.                            

Vice-Chancellor

The Vice-Chancellor of UHAS, Professor Lydia Aziato, recalled the outbreak of COVID-19 and its associated social issues such as lockdowns which reinforced the need to embrace digital technologies in the performance of day-to-day activities.

She paid glowing tribute to the former Vice-Chancellor of UHAS, Professor John O. Gyapong under whose leadership UHAS commenced the process for the establishment of the IAC, the second if its kind in Ghana with support from the National Information Society Agency of Korea.

The Executive Director of the National Information Society Agency of Korea, Yang Hyeonsoo, said the agency would continue to support students, government workers, local residents and other people in various sectors to benefit from digital technology through the IAC at UHAS.