In a recent address at the Youth Connect program at the Borteyman Sports Complex in Accra, Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer for the upcoming elections, declared the concerns and aspirations of Ghana’s youth as his top priority. He committed to tirelessly working to create decent and sustainable job opportunities for young people, stating, “When I say your concerns and aspirations are my top priorities, I mean it from every sinew in my body.”
Dr. Bawumia unveiled a comprehensive plan aimed at transforming the Ghanaian economy through bold, business-friendly policies intended to generate nearly four million jobs. He urged the youth to trust in his ability to protect public funds and serve their interests selflessly. Reflecting on the economic difficulties Ghanaians have faced in recent years, particularly the prolonged power outages during the Mahama administration, he noted how these challenges had adversely affected productivity and led to significant job losses.
With the elections approaching on December 7, Dr. Bawumia emphasized the crucial choice voters face: a return to “past failures” or the chance for “renewed leadership” focused on progress. He insisted that the youth must choose a leader who understands the connection between digitization and economic advancement, reaffirming that their voices would play a vital role in shaping his government’s policies.
Central to his job creation strategy is the expansion of educational opportunities, which includes increasing student accommodation in public universities through private sector partnerships and introducing scholarships for students with disabilities. He underscored the importance of maintaining and enhancing initiatives like Free Senior High School (SHS) and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), which have significantly improved student enrollment and gender parity in education.
Dr. Bawumia’s vision also includes the completion of the Agenda 111 hospitals project, expected to create between 70,000 and 72,000 healthcare jobs while ensuring that every district has access to essential healthcare services. Furthermore, he plans to implement a “Buy Ghana First” policy, establish a Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) Bank, and develop Special Economic Zones in border towns to boost economic activity and job creation.
In addressing agricultural challenges, he proposed establishing mechanization centers in every district and developing irrigation solutions for large-scale farming. He also outlined plans to create agrarian enclaves based on regional strengths and invest in research and development to modernize the agricultural sector. Dr. Bawumia reaffirmed his commitment to fostering an environment where young people can thrive, highlighting the transformative power of technology and inclusive policies. “My bold plan for job creation is not just an economic agenda; it is a call to action for the youth of Ghana to take charge of their future and contribute to the nation’s progress,” he concluded, as young participants from across the 16 regions engaged virtually in the program.
