Dean of University of Cape Coast Business School, Professor John Gatsi has punched holes into the digitization agenda of government being led by the Vice President, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia.
The Vice President on Tuesday revealed the various interventions by goverment to transform the economy through digitization of the various sectors including health, agriculture, transport, education and finance. Through digitization, the goverment aims at building a more inclusive society that promotes the realization of the Ghanaian dream.
However, Professor John Gatsi contends digitization should not be seen as an end itself. In an article published on his Facebook page hours after the now famous presentation by Dr Bawumia at Ashesi University, Prof Gatsi argued that the relevance of digitization is determined by its contribution towards meeting the basic needs of the citizenry.
Therefore, any discussions about digitization must encompass the provision of the necessary infrastructure and socioeconomic conditions that enable people to enjoy the benefits that comes with the process.
"The hard truth is, it [digitization] is not a replacement for the provision of potable water, industrial and domestic access to cheaper energy. Is also not a replacement for debt overhauling, fiscal dominance and massive unemployment.
"Poor housing schemes, low investment in roads, irrigation facilities and continuous income erosion for households cannot be replaced by digitization".
He added: "If we make the mistake into thinking that digitization surpasses the provision of of common needs of the people, then we are saying that applying for Ghana card on an empty stomach is a great achievement. Doing all including digitization is a must. There is financial inclusion and financial empowerment. People don't enjoy enhanced payment systems without the ability to earn sustained income".
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