A Justice of the Supreme Court, Justice Kweku Tawiah Ackaah-Boafo, has advised Ghanaians, particularly the youth, to “lead with wisdom in the digital age” in order to build a strong future.

According to him, technology represents the future of the world and must therefore be used productively and effectively.

Justice Ackaah-Boafo made the call while addressing a gathering at the 50th anniversary celebration of Huni Valley Senior High School (HUNIVASS) in the Western Region, held under the theme, “50 Years of Excellent Education: The Role of Stakeholders.”

He urged students of HUNIVASS and young people across the country to take up leadership roles in the digital era, but to do so with wisdom and responsibility.

In essence, the Supreme Court judge, who was the guest speaker at the event, encouraged the youth to embrace technology and digital tools, make informed decisions, and lead with thoughtful consideration to help shape Ghana’s future in the digital age.

He further urged young people to combine knowledge, insight and good judgment in navigating the opportunities and challenges of the digital world.

“Students of HUNIVASS and the youth of Ghana, this Jubilee invites you to lead with wisdom in the digital age,” he said.

“Use technology to learn, create, innovate and uplift your communities. Let your online presence reflect discipline, dignity and purpose. Build a digital legacy that protects and advances your ambitions.

“Technology is powerful, but also unforgiving when misused,” he added, noting that “responsible online conduct safeguards your reputation, your opportunities and your future.

“In a world where the internet does not forget, protecting tomorrow begins with the choices you make today,” he said.

Justice Ackaah-Boafo stressed that the phrase “the internet does not forget” is not a cliché.

While acknowledging that many young people actively use technology in their daily lives—a development he commended—he cautioned against the dangers associated with its misuse.

“Technology is no longer optional—it shapes how we live, trade and learn. It has become part of our ecosystem, hence the term ‘media ecology’,” he said.

“If education is the bedrock of national progress, then, as exhorted by the great Canadian communications philosopher Marshall McLuhan, it must fully embrace the digital age,” he added.

“Digital transformation is not merely about gadgets, internet access or artificial intelligence. It is about reimagining learning. It means creating classrooms without walls, where students can connect with the world while remaining rooted in the cherished values of Huni Valley and every part of this country.”

Justice Ackaah-Boafo also emphasised the importance of digital literacy, warning that “digital culture is advancing at a pace that strips many safeguards away, and users often realise this only when the damage is done and cannot be reversed.”

He noted that while technology and the internet offer unprecedented opportunities for learning, innovation and global connectivity, misuse carries serious consequences.

“Yet these same tools, when misused, carry serious and lasting legal and social consequences—particularly for young people. Print culture, on which modern education is founded, provided essential guard rails for learning,” he said.

He reiterated that “the warning that ‘the internet does not forget’ is not a cliché. It is a serious truth. Online actions create permanent digital footprints that can resurface at any time and in any context.”

“A single impulsive post or image shared on a smartphone, tablet or computer can follow a young person for years, affecting legal standing, destroying reputation, and closing the doors to education, employment and future opportunities,” he cautioned.

“This is why digital media literacy is not optional. It is urgent, and it is central to my message today,” Justice Ackaah-Boafo urged.