Addressing a captivated audience at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA), Lord Paul Boateng, a member of the UK House of Lords, delivered a powerful message on Ghana’s need for greater self-reliance and respect for local academic achievements. His speech, marked by clarity and urgency, called on Ghana’s leadership to steer the country away from its long-standing dependence on external aid.
Challenging Aid Dependency
During his keynote at the 2024 Annual Leadership Lecture, Lord Boateng highlighted the detrimental effects of reliance on foreign aid. He critiqued the prevailing attitude that undervalues local educational credentials in comparison to foreign ones, such as the unsettling social media buzz that a Dutch passport holds more value than a Ghanaian PhD. “We are held down in an impoverished and conflicted posture by our dependence on external aid and the great powers,” Boateng lamented, signaling a pressing need for change.
Reflecting on a significant moment from 2018, Lord Boateng recalled President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s statement alongside French President Emmanuel Macron, where President Akufo-Addo advocated for Africa to wean itself off external aid to foster true independence and development. This historical reference served to reinforce the message that Ghana, and indeed Africa, must cultivate resilience and self-sufficiency to progress.
Under the theme “Fulfilling the Promise: The Challenge of Leadership! Moving from Rhetoric to Delivery,” Lord Boateng stressed that true leadership transcends mere talk; it requires decisive action and a commitment to practical solutions. He criticized the trend where statements of intent do not translate into concrete actions, particularly in elevating and valuing local expertise and education.
Boateng’s speech was a call to action for Ghana’s leaders to engage more deeply in fostering a culture of innovation and self-reliance. He urged the audience to consider the long-term benefits of enhancing local educational standards and reducing external dependencies. “Leadership must be at the heart of our response,” he stated emphatically, pointing out the vital role of visionary leadership in transforming Ghana’s socio-economic landscape.
Inspiring a Shift Towards Self-Reliance
In his concluding remarks, Lord Boateng appealed to Ghanaian leaders to adopt proactive strategies that not only address immediate economic and educational challenges but also inspire a renewed sense of national pride and capability. He emphasized the importance of leadership in building a sustainable future where Ghanaians are encouraged to rely on their talents and resources, rather than looking outward for validation and support.
The lecture not only served as a reflective platform but also as a motivational call urging Ghanaian leaders at all levels to take meaningful steps toward achieving the nation’s potential for greatness through independence and strong local institutions.
Source: Graphic Online
