By Emmanuel Gamson
Takoradi, March 13, GNA – Dr Patrick Ekye Kwesie, Leader of the Western Nzema Youth League (WNYL), a youth group, says the 2025 Budget of the government holds the potential to transform the economic fortunes of young people in the country.
He said the government’s allocation of funds for some youth-centred policies like the National Coders Programme, Agriculture for Economic Transformation Agenda (AETA), and the National Apprenticeship Programme would not only create jobs but also empower the youth to thrive in a rapidly evolving global economy.
He was speaking to the Ghana News Agency in an interview in reaction to the 2025 Budget Statement which was presented in Parliament by Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, the Minister for Finance, on Tuesday, March 11.
The Finance Minister announced that the government would allocate GH¢100 million for the National Coders Programme, GH¢1.5 billion for Agriculture for Economic Transformation Agenda (AETA), and GH¢300 million for the National Apprenticeship Programme.
Dr Kwesie said the move by the government to invest in the youth through these programmes was a turning point for young people to become active contributors to the nation’s growth and development.
He said: “In an age where technology drives nearly every sector, investing in coding education is not only preparing our youth for future job opportunities, but also fostering a culture of innovation.”
He continued: “I am particularly happy about the Agriculture for Economic Transformation Agenda because while technology is vital, Ghana’s economy has deep roots in agriculture, so allocating resources to modernise the agricultural sector will be making it more attractive to the youth.”
Dr Kwesie stated that the National Apprenticeship Programme would also enable young people to gain real-world experience, making them more employable and better prepared for the workforce.
“This programme can help bridge the gap between education and employment, because many young Ghanaians struggle to find jobs after completing their studies due to a lack of practical experience.
“By integrating apprenticeship programmes into the educational system, the government can ensure that graduates are not only knowledgeable but also possess the hands-on skills that employers seek while creating jobs for themselves too,” he noted.
Dr Kwesie urged the government to ensure full implementation of those programmes to help empower the youth, create sustainable jobs for them and improve their living standards.
GNA
JP/GRB