Many entry level job adverts in Ghana, from office assistants to customer service agents, ask for basic computer skills. You cannot learn a keyboard only by reading about it. You need regular time in front of a real computer. The good news is that you do not have to own one.
Places to ask
- Your current or former school. Many SHS and JHS schools have an ICT lab. Ask the ICT teacher or head teacher if you can use it after classes, at weekends or during holidays.
- Public and community libraries. Some libraries have computers for the public.
- Community centres, youth centres and NGO offices. Some run digital skills programmes or open computer rooms.
- Churches and mosques. Some have an office computer or run classes for young people.
- Business centres and internet cafes. You usually pay by the hour, so plan exactly what you will practise before you go.
- Family, friends and employers. A relative who owns a laptop, or a shop or office that might let you practise after closing time.
How to ask
People are more likely to say yes if you are clear and polite, and if you offer something in return. For example:
"Good afternoon Sir. I am preparing for a digital skills programme and I need to practise typing and using a computer. Could I use the lab for one hour on Saturday mornings? I am happy to help keep the lab clean or assist younger students."