The Ghanaian government is under growing pressure to address the issue of youth unemployment and underemployment. According to recent statistics, nearly two million young people in the country are neither working nor in education or training. This highlights the challenge of translating economic growth and macroeconomic stability into decent jobs for the country's youthful population. The government is being urged to take action to convert its expanding youth population into productive employment.
The Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA) Ghana has launched a one-year initiative to assess the institutional, regulatory and workforce requirements for Ghana's nuclear power programme. This initiative is part of the country's efforts to develop its energy sector and provide opportunities for young people. The programme aims to assess the readiness of Ghana's nuclear power programme and identify areas for improvement. This could potentially create new job opportunities for young Ghanaians.
In other news, First Sky Limited has completed a 50-megawatt peak (MWp) solar power plant at Galgu in the Yendi Municipality of the Northern Region. The project was commended by the Parliamentary Select Committee on Energy and Mines. The solar power plant is expected to provide electricity to thousands of households and businesses, creating new opportunities for economic growth and development in the region.
The Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MoFA) has challenged community seed producers at the Gundoug community of the Upper East Region to transform their indigenous seed system into a model for climate-resilient farming. This initiative aims to improve agricultural productivity and provide opportunities for young people in the region. The project could potentially create new jobs and improve food security in the region.
The Ghana National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GNCCI) plans to recapitalise its credit union to expand access to affordable financing for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). This move is expected to ease business constraints and strengthen private sector growth. The recapitalisation of the credit union could provide new opportunities for young entrepreneurs and help to address the issue of youth unemployment.
In a related development, Momo Covert has emerged winner of the Northern Ghana Zonal Hackathon of the MoMo Fintech Lab, held in Tamale. The company will earn a place at the national competition alongside three other top-performing teams. The hackathon aimed to promote innovation and entrepreneurship in the fintech sector, providing opportunities for young people to develop new ideas and solutions.
Finally, Shekinah Glory Bakery, a Tamale-based bakery and social enterprise, has donated food supplies, drinking water, beverages and educational materials to Yumba Special School. The donation aims to support the feeding, education and welfare of children with intellectual disabilities. The initiative demonstrates the importance of corporate social responsibility and community engagement in addressing social issues.
Key points
- The Ghanaian government faces mounting pressure to convert its expanding youth population into productive employment.
- Nearly two million young people in Ghana are neither working nor in education or training.
- The government is being urged to take action to address the issue of youth unemployment and underemployment.
