Political Aide to the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) presidential candidate, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Kofi Tontoh, has provided further insights into the candidate’s initiative to generate four million job opportunities for the youth of Ghana.
In an interview with Beatrice Adu on Midday News on November 4, Tontoh outlined a comprehensive strategy that encompasses three key elements: quality education, the development of employable skills, and specific job creation programs.
Tontoh noted that Dr. Bawumia intends to build upon the educational achievements of the current government, highlighting that approximately 5.7 million students have benefited from the free Senior High School (SHS) program as of the 2023 academic year, with projections indicating an increase to 6.5 million by the conclusion of 2024.
Nevertheless, Tontoh stressed that ensuring quality education is merely the initial phase, emphasizing the importance of equipping young individuals with skills that are in demand in sectors such as law, engineering, and digital technology.
One of the candidate’s priorities is to ensure that education is complemented by skills that can directly lead to employment. After acquiring these skills, the next critical step is to provide jobs that allow young people to actively contribute to the economy.
Tontoh indicated that a fundamental component of Dr. Bawumia’s strategy for job creation is the “Buy Ghana” initiative, designed to enhance the demand for goods produced within the country.
He further elaborated that Dr. Bawumia intends to revise the Procurement Act to establish a legal requirement for government agencies to give preference to the acquisition of Ghanaian products.
By backing ‘Buy Ghana’ with legislation, we’re not only promoting local goods but also creating thousands of jobs for young people.
Furthermore, Tontoh proposed the establishment of a national credit scoring system aimed at enhancing access to financial resources.
He contended that such a credit system would allow a greater number of Ghanaians to obtain financing for the acquisition of essential goods and services, consequently stimulating economic growth. Recognizing the apprehensions surrounding debt, Tontoh maintained that.
If used responsibly, credit access could empower citizens to make significant purchases, such as homes and vehicles, that drive economic growth and create jobs in manufacturing and other sectors.
Tontoh also expressed his concerns regarding the accessibility of these policies for the substantial informal workforce in Ghana. He pointed out that although a credit scoring system may initially serve individuals in formal employment, it is anticipated that the policy will evolve and eventually provide advantages to the informal sector as well.
The policy’s impact will grow as it matures, eventually bringing more Ghanaians into the labor force.
In addressing inquiries regarding the regulatory challenges faced by Ghana, Tontoh recognized that the enforcement of certain laws, particularly those governing real estate transactions, is often inadequate.
Nonetheless, he conveyed optimism that the implementation of a strong credit system could enhance accountability in sectors such as real estate and promote greater adherence to legal standards.
Dr. Bawumia’s team is confident that these initiatives will foster an environment that equips Ghanaian youth with the necessary skills, resources, and employment opportunities essential for sustained economic growth.
