Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Vice President of Ghana and flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has pledged to make job creation for the youth a central focus of his administration if elected President. Speaking during a media engagement in Accra, Bawumia emphasized the importance of fostering economic growth and expanding employment opportunities for young people across the country.
Fostering Business Growth and Job Creation
Bawumia acknowledged the progress made under President Akufo-Addo, noting that over 2.1 million jobs have been created in the past seven years. However, he recognized that unemployment remains a pressing issue, especially among the youth. “There are many areas that we will tackle to ensure young people can secure jobs,” he said, outlining his plans to boost employment through economic growth.
A significant part of his strategy involves supporting business expansion. Bawumia stated that his administration would introduce a series of incentives designed to help businesses grow and, in turn, create more jobs. “We are looking at the growth of businesses which will lead to more hiring,” he explained. This approach includes a comprehensive tax reform program, featuring a flat tax rate and tax amnesty to create a more favorable business environment.
Enhancing Education and Skills Training
Understanding the critical role of education in job creation, Bawumia emphasized the need to enhance investment in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET). He argued that equipping the youth with essential skills is vital for their employment prospects. “We believe that training the youth is very important, so the investment we are making in TVET will be significantly improved,” Bawumia asserted.
In addition to TVET, Bawumia stressed the importance of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) skills training. He noted that ICT skills would provide job opportunities both within Ghana and internationally. “We are also committed to training the youth in a broad area of ICT skills,” he added. This comprehensive approach aims to ensure that Ghanaian youth are well-prepared for the demands of a modern economy.
Broader Vision for Economic Development
Bawumia’s vision extends beyond immediate job creation. He highlighted the need for a holistic approach to economic development that addresses both current employment challenges and future opportunities. By focusing on both business growth and skills development, Bawumia aims to create a sustainable economic environment that benefits all Ghanaians. “Our efforts will ensure that many of our trained youth will have the opportunity to secure jobs in Ghana and from various places abroad,” he concluded.
As the political landscape in Ghana heats up, Bawumia’s focus on youth employment and economic reform positions him as a candidate committed to addressing one of the country’s most significant challenges. His proposed policies reflect a strategic approach to fostering economic growth, enhancing education, and creating job opportunities for the next generation.
Source: Graphic Online
