Patriotic Spaces: Bawumia’s Vision for the youth, jobs, and the modern economy

BawuOne bDr Mahamudu thing is becoming clear: Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, the presidential candidate for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), is not just talking about business—he means business. In the manifesto unveiled by the NPP, Dr Bawumia outlines a bold vision to transform Ghana’s economy, with a laser focus on creating jobs for young people and developing businesses that can thrive in a new, modern global economy.

For young Ghanaians, this is more than a manifesto—it’s a roadmap to economic empowerment. As host of the weekly Patriotic Spaces on X, which engages directly with young people, I had the privilege of sitting down with the Deputy CEO of the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre, Mr Yaw Afriyie, on 4th September, 2024, to break down what this really means for the future of our nation’s youth. And the message is clear: a vote for Dr Bawumia is a vote for businesses, innovation, and job creation. In the conversation, we talked about Dr Bawumia’s commitment to jobs and digital skills, the SME bank, a digital economy for a global future, his vision for sustainability and long-term job creation, and creating opportunities for all through deliberate policies on gender and inclusivity.

Commitment to jobs and digital skills

In today’s rapidly evolving world, where the Fourth Industrial Revolution is disrupting industries across the globe, it is no longer enough to depend on traditional jobs. The NPP manifesto understands this shift and prioritises preparing Ghanaian youth for the digital age. With a commitment to training 1,000,000 young people in digital skills, the message Dr Bawumia is sounding is loud and clear: Ghana is ready to position its youth at the forefront of the global digital economy.

This is a game-changer. Young people from all walks of life, whether in rural or urban areas, will have access to skills in fields such as robotics, artificial intelligence (AI), and data analytics. These industries will define the future of work, and Ghana’s youth will be equipped not just to participate but to lead in these spaces.

The creation of jobs is not limited to traditional sectors. The manifesto highlights the potential of sectors like agribusiness, construction, tourism, and creative arts, where young people can carve out meaningful careers. Dr Bawumia’s vision is one where young Ghanaians are not just employees; they are entrepreneurs, innovators, and leaders in a future-focused economy.

SME Bank: Empowering entrepreneurs

Access to financing has always been a major barrier for young entrepreneurs. This is where Dr Bawumia’s proposal of an SME Bank comes into play. This initiative is designed to provide tailored financial support for small and medium-sized businesses, which employ over 80% of Ghanaians. It is aimed at young business owners needing capital to scale their ideas.

But financing is only part of the story. Initiatives like the National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme (NEIP) introduced under the government of Nana Akufo-Addo, which has already funded 15,000 small businesses, demonstrate a commitment to supporting youth-led enterprises through mentorship and training. For young people looking to start or grow their businesses, these programmes provide not just the resources but also the networks and support systems they need to succeed.

Digital economy for a global future

Dr Bawumia is not just thinking about today’s economy—he is looking towards the future. The manifesto outlines a clear plan to transform Ghana into a world-class digital economy. This includes building a National Robotics, Engineering, and AI Lab, establishing a $100 million Fintech Fund to support tech startups, and pushing for cross-border mobile money interoperability across Africa.

For young tech enthusiasts, this is an exciting time. The world is moving towards digital solutions in finance, health, education, and nearly every other sector. Ghana is being positioned as the digital hub of Africa, and this opens up a wealth of opportunities for young Ghanaians to create innovative solutions, access new markets, and build successful tech enterprises.

Vision for sustainability and long-term job creation

In addition to digital industries, Dr Bawumia is investing in sustainable job creation in sectors like green energy, mining, and agriculture. The manifesto emphasises the development of the electric vehicle industry and solar power, creating jobs not only for the present but also for the long-term future.

This is an important distinction. Many job creation initiatives focus on short-term gains, but Dr Bawumia’s policies are designed to create industries that will provide sustainable careers for generations of Ghanaians. By concentrating on renewable energy and sustainable agriculture, young people will find opportunities in industries that are growing, stable, and aligned with the global push towards green economies.

Gender and Inclusivity: Opportunities for All

One of the standout features of the NPP’s manifesto is its focus on inclusivity, particularly for young women. Initiatives like the Women’s Trade Empowerment Fund (WoTEF), gender parity in scholarship awards, and the commitment to making tertiary education free for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) reflect a commitment to ensuring that no one is left behind.

These policies open new doors for young women entrepreneurs and professionals. The manifesto promises to address the specific challenges women face in business and the workplace, including support for women-owned businesses and measures to protect women’s rights in the workforce. This holistic approach to job creation and economic empowerment recognises the need to create opportunities for all, regardless of gender or ability.

A Vote for Bawumia is a Vote for the Future

At its core, Dr Bawumia’s message is one of possibility. In his own words, “It is possible” to build a future where every young Ghanaian has the chance to thrive in a dynamic and modern economy. The policies outlined in the manifesto are not just promises—they are bold solutions designed to create businesses, foster entrepreneurship, and provide secure jobs in a future-focused economy.

For young people across Ghana, this election presents a critical choice. A vote for Dr Bawumia is a vote for businesses, jobs, and innovation. It is a vote for policies that will equip the youth with the skills they need to succeed in a global digital economy, empower entrepreneurs with the resources they need to grow, and build sustainable industries that will provide long-term employment.

Dr Bawumia means business, and his business is the future of Ghana’s youth. The opportunities are vast, and the vision is clear: a brighter, prosperous future where young people lead the way.

So as we head to the polls in December, remember—a vote for Dr Bawumia is a vote for businesses and jobs, for a Ghana that thrives in a modern, global economy. Let’s build a future of possibility together. It is possible!

The writer is Kow Abaka Essuman, Legal Counsel to the President and Host of Patriotic Spaces

Accra

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