Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah has indicated government’s unrelenting commitment to fostering an inclusive economy that guarantees equal opportunities for all citizens, with a strong emphasis on youth empowerment, job creation, and social justice.
The address was delivered on his behalf by Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Shamima Muslim at the 2025 National Emerging Leaders Economic Forum, held at the esteemed University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA), under the auspices of VODEC Africa. The forum’s theme, “Building an Inclusive Economy: Ensuring Equal Opportunities for All Citizens,” which rings deeply with the spirit of this year’s Founders’ Day celebrations.
With unyielding conviction, Debrah underscored the paramount importance of youth empowerment, citing stark statistics that reveal a staggering 1.9 million Ghanaian youth were not in employment, education, or training (NEET) last year.
He stressed that an inclusive economy must deliberately create dignified jobs for young people, expand opportunities for women, protect the vulnerable, and ensure justice in the distribution of national resources.
President Mahama’s Reset Agenda is anchored on the pillars of Jobs, Accountability, and Shared Prosperity, with visionary interventions including the newly established Youth Ministry.
This ministry oversees key agencies such as the Youth Employment Agency, National Youth Authority, National Service Authority, and National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme.
Flagship policies designed to equip young Ghanaians with skills, resources, and opportunities include the groundbreaking 24-Hour Economy, National Apprenticeship Programme, Adwumawura Programme, Youth Entrepreneurship Fund, and One Million Coders initiative.
The Adwumawura Programme is also set to revolutionize youth entrepreneurship, supporting the creation of 10,000 youth-led enterprises annually through 200 hubs nationwide.
Mr.Debrah highlighted the significance of Africa’s youthful population, noting that over 60% of the continent’s population is under 30. While this presents boundless opportunities, it also poses formidable risks if quality education, skills, and jobs are not prioritized.
Mr. Debrah eloquently concluded, quoting the renowned anthropologist Margaret Mead, “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, concerned citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”
This profound remark underscores the transformative role young leaders play in shaping Ghana’s future, inspiring a new generation of visionary leaders to drive meaningful change.
*Phalonzy🖊️*
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