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The MTN Ghana Foundation’s Board Chairman, Professor Franklyn Manu, has called Ghana’s youth unemployment a ticking time bomb.
The future stability of the nation is seriously threatened, he said, if this problem is not resolved immediately. Professor Manu stressed the need for workable and long-term solutions to address youth unemployment during his remarks at the “Bright Conversations” session.
Although Ghana’s economy is expanding, young people are not being sufficiently supported. With more than 57% of the country’s population under 25, and a youth unemployment rate of about 32% (for those aged 15 to 24) as of June 2024, the demographic dividend offers enormous potential as well as the potential for instability if it is not properly utilized.
The fact that many young people lack the technological know-how necessary for today’s work market further complicates the matter.
The Importance of Inclusive Laws
Professor Manu emphasized that the fundamental problems cannot be resolved by merely generating economic growth in the absence of inclusive policies.
He called on the nation’s leaders to change their perspective and create structures that encourage young people to participate in the economy.
This includes making investments in innovation and technology to boost employment and the economy. The chairman of the MTN Ghana Foundation underlined that one of the most reliable strategies to reduce unemployment and increase economic resilience is through technology-driven empowerment.
Shifting the Attitude of Youth
The professor also took issue with the growing tendency among young people to look for security in paid positions rather than putting in the effort to work hard or pursue entrepreneurial opportunities.
In order to be relevant in society, he urged young Ghanaians to acquire the proper mindset and abilities. Long-term success, in his opinion, requires resiliency, skill development, and an optimistic outlook. The MTN Ghana Foundation has been tackling this problem with programs including micro business support, entrepreneurship training, and digital skills training.
An Appeal for Action
The caution from Professor Manu emphasizes how urgently Ghana’s young unemployment problem must be addressed. Economic reforms and employment development that benefit youth must be given top priority by the nation’s leadership.
This can be accomplished by providing young entrepreneurs with market-aligned education and support. All Ghanaians stand to gain from a more inclusive and sustainable economy that may be built through cooperation.
