Accra: President John Dramani Mahama has urged youth in Zongos and inner cities to take advantage of the government's new initiatives, particularly the National Apprenticeship Programme, to develop skills for the world of work. He addressed this during the national Eid al-Adha prayers at the Blackstar Square in Accra.
According to Ghana News Agency, President Mahama also encouraged Ghanaian youths to leverage the Government's Adwumawurah Programme, which aims to help them start their own businesses with capital and mentorship. He highlighted that the Government plans to introduce several programs under the Youth Employment Agency designed to equip the nation's youth with essential life skills, promoting independence, leadership, and dignity.
President Mahama emphasized the government's commitment to ensuring that Zongo communities are no longer neglected, as part of the new Zongo Development Framework. This framework will prioritize improvements in infrastructure, sanitation, health, sports, and vocational training. He expressed his belief that every Ghanaian child deserves a fair shot at success, regardless of their birthplace.
In his speech, President Mahama announced the formation of a multi-religious Committee tasked with planning a National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving. Scheduled for 1st July, this event will see both Muslim and Christian prayers offered, thanking Allah for the blessings bestowed upon Ghana. He expressed optimism that such gratitude would lead to further blessings, including economic improvements.
Addressing economic challenges, President Mahama acknowledged the struggles faced by many families, including high prices, scarce jobs, and diminished hope. He assured that the Government is focused on stabilizing the cedi, reducing wasteful expenditures, creating jobs, and supporting local industries as part of an economic reset agenda. He reported signs of progress, with declining inflation and a relatively stable cedi.
President Mahama emphasized the role of youth, particularly vibrant Zongo youth, in building the nation's economy. He concluded his address by calling for a recommitment to values such as faith, sacrifice, love, and unity, urging remembrance of the poor, orphans, widows, the sick, and the elderly.
