Mindset

Chief Executive Officer of MTN Ghana, Stephen Blewett, has called on young people across Ghana to embrace artificial intelligence (AI), digital tools, and entrepreneurship as the keys to unlocking their future prosperity. He emphasized that the digital revolution is already underway and must be harnessed to create opportunities rather than feared. Speaking on Springboard, Your Virtual University with Rev. Albert Ocran, Mr. Blewett highlighted Ghana’s potential to become a leader in AI if government, the private sector, civil society, and citizens work together. “It must be a collaboration. Government can’t run alone. MTN can’t run alone. NGOs can’t. But if we all put our efforts together with a common purpose, Ghana can lead this revolution. Otherwise, someone else will take that position,” he stated. Mr. Blewett revealed that MTN is investing in young people to drive innovation while also supporting the government’s One Million Coders Project, an initiative designed to prepare the next generation for the jobs of the future. Encouraging young people to be proactive, he advised: “Don’t wait. Put yourself forward. Get together with friends, develop ideas, and pursue opportunities. One of the biggest opportunities I see in Africa is gaming — but games that are developed locally, coded creatively, and even enhanced with AI.” He further urged parents to support their children’s interests in gaming and digital technology, noting that these tools can be powerful vehicles for learning and innovation. “Sometimes we reject it because it’s unfamiliar. But gaming can be used positively, even for education in maths and science. Parents must see the potential rather than dismiss it,” he explained. Reflecting on his own leadership journey, Mr. Blewett admitted that he was “arrogant” earlier in his career but has since learned humility, resilience, and service. “As a CEO, you are a custodian, a servant. You ultimately serve everyone in the organization, even the shareholder with just ten shares. That’s a sobering thought,” he remarked. Highlighting the impact of MTN Ghana, which serves over 30 million customers daily, he underscored the scale of responsibility the company carries. “If I turned off the network today, you would see how important we are. We are shaping the digital future of economies and people. That is a huge responsibility,” he said. Looking ahead, Mr. Blewett reaffirmed MTN’s commitment to continued investment in network quality, digital services, and opportunities for Ghanaians. “What gives me the most joy is seeing lives touched through what we do. Our ethos is that everyone deserves the benefits of a modern, connected life, and we will not leave anyone behind,” he affirmed. About the Springboard Road Show Foundation The Springboard Road Show Foundation (SRSF) is a non-profit organization dedicated to youth empowerment, mindset transformation, and career development. Through programs like Springboard, Your Virtual University, The Ghana Grows Programme in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, and Springboard Road Show 2025, SRSF continues to inspire and equip young Africans to lead change in their communities and industries. Springboard Road Show Foundation (SRSF) Communications & Public Affairs Department Email: info@springboard.com.gh Website: www.springboard.com.gh