Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has reignited optimism among Ghanaian youth through his promises aimed at enhancing education and job opportunities, particularly during his recent campaign in the Upper West Region.
Short Summary:
- Dr. Bawumia receives overwhelming support from the youth for his educational and employment reforms.
- The ‘kayayei’ Empowerment Programme launched to enhance the socio-economic status of female head porters.
- Plans to enhance digital skills training among the youth are central to Bawumia’s campaign vision.
In a compelling recent campaign journey, Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia demonstrated an unwavering dedication to empowering Ghana’s youth.
His campaign visit to Talensi, Nabdam, and Bolga East attracted significant crowds, showcasing the enthusiasm of young listeners eager to hear Bawumia’s vision for a prosperous future.
He stated, “The passion for Ghana’s imminent accelerated development was on full display,” underscoring the support his proposals have garnered among the younger population.
As the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) for the 2024 elections, Dr. Bawumia emphasized a series of sweeping reforms focusing on critical areas: education, health, and job creation, all while leveraging modern technology.
His agenda aims to equip Ghanaians, particularly the youth, with essential skills for flourishing in today’s economy.
Uniting for Empowerment
Highlighting the empowerment of women, Dr. Bawumia launched the ‘kayayei’ Empowerment Programme, which seeks to uplift 5,000 female head porters (known as kayayei) through comprehensive Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET).
Launched on May 21, 2024, in Accra, the initiative aims to address the struggles faced by these women, who often endure harsh realities in urban centres.
“This noble endeavour resonates profoundly with the core values of our mission, as it squarely addresses the pressing needs of a marginalised segment of our society,” Dr. Bawumia asserted during the programme’s inauguration.
The initiative focuses on a multi-faceted recruitment process, selecting participants for a unique learning experience.
Over three weeks, beneficiaries will undertake essential courses, including baking and beading, alongside training in personal health care, financial management, and entrepreneurship skills.
Dr. Bawumia pledged that support would extend beyond training, encompassing ongoing guidance and starter packs to establish participants in sustainable livelihoods.
The Role of Collaboration
This ambitious programme is bolstered by partnerships forged with various government agencies, private enterprises, and civil society organizations, encompassing the Ghana Enterprises Agency, National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme, and Youth Employment Agency.
Through coordinated efforts, the government aspires to ensure these young women are no longer relegated to marginalization but are given pathways to thrive.
Education Reform: A Vision for the Future
During his tour, Bawumia visited the Sandem-Nab, Paramount Chief of the Builsa Traditional Area, where he emphasized the urgent need for a tertiary institution.
Responding to Chief Azantilow’s plea for a nursing training program, he promised to facilitate essential projects to improve the region’s educational landscape.
“A tertiary institution in this district is something that I want to promise you as president; I will make sure you have it,” Dr. Bawumia stated.
This pledge is aligned with ongoing NPP initiatives aimed at expanding access to technical vocational training and senior high school educational programs.
The Free Senior High School policy stands as a significant commitment by the government to ensure education is available to all Ghanaian youth irrespective of their socio-economic background.
Enhancing Digital Skills Training
Dr. Bawumia has also set ambitious plans to train one million young Ghanaians in digital skills. His campaign underscores that the future lies in technological advancement, placing digital education at the forefront of his agenda.
He proclaimed, “We want to build an economy that can create jobs for the youth, and that is why we are digitalizing the economy.”
Through strategies that involve enhancing internet connectivity and abolishing taxes on smartphones, Bawumia envisions a digitally adept workforce prepared to tackle modern economic challenges.
“My brothers, my sisters, we are talking about the future, and the future is about the youth,” he emphasized, rallying support from the younger electorate.
Key Figures in Support and Collaboration
Prominent figures, including Hajia Humu Awudu, the NPP Parliamentary Candidate for Wa Central, have echoed Bawumia’s sentiments, assuring voters that their support will facilitate job creation for the youth.
This approach reflects a united effort within the NPP to connect with young voters on pressing socioeconomic issues.
Acknowledging Past Achievement
In contrast to the challenges faced under previous administrations, Bawumia continues to acknowledge the developments achieved through the Free SHS policy, as well as the reinstatement of teacher trainee allowances by the current government.
He maintains that previous achievements lay down a solid foundation for future progress.
Restoration of the teacher-trainee and nursing training allowances by this government was a testament to our commitment to education,” he stated confidently.
Final Appeals to Voters
Dr. Bawumia’s campaign remains centered on promises that connect directly to the needs and aspirations of Ghana’s youth. The emphasis on education, skills training, and opportunities underlines a progressive vision that seeks to foster dignity and independence among young Ghanaians.
In light of the approaching December elections, he has urged all electorates to support his candidacy to actualize these significant reforms.
As the campaign unfolds, it remains evident that the focus on youth empowerment through education and technological advancement will be a pivotal theme in Ghana’s political discourse leading up to the elections.
With these commitments, Dr. Bawumia represents a perspective aiming to reshape the future for many Ghanaians, nurturing hopes for sound educational policies and sustainable employment opportunities.
Through a united front, the NPP leadership appears determined to integrate and uplift the youth of Ghana, giving them the tools necessary to thrive in an ever-evolving global landscape.
Ultimately, the promise of a brighter future rests in the hands of the electorate as they head to the polls in December, shaping not only the destiny of the current administration but determining the opportunities available for generations to come.
