By Maxwell Awumah
Ho, May 31, GNA – Dr Abraham Gaitu, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of KEM Groupe, has urged young people to embrace entrepreneurship, innovation, and problem-solving as pathways to job security in an era of rapid technological change and automation.
Speaking at a two-day Youth Leadership Empowerment and Career Development Summit in Ho, Dr Gaitu said the traditional model of obtaining a degree and securing lifelong employment was becoming less reliable, particularly for younger generations entering the labour market.
The summit was organised by IRMAD Development and Social Network (IDSNet) in collaboration with the CAYEP Leadership Institute (CAYELI) of Liberia, under the theme: “Igniting Vision, Driving Change: The Role of the Youth.”
Dr Gaitu noted that advances in artificial intelligence and digital technology were transforming workplaces and automating routine tasks, making entrepreneurship an increasingly attractive option for the youth.
“The future is not something you wait for; it is something you build. The best job security today is the ability to create value, solve problems, and adapt to change,” he said.
Dr Gaitu, who is also the CEO of SALARIA EYE Med, explained that technological advancements had significantly lowered barriers to business creation, enabling entrepreneurs to access marketing tools, business support services, and funding opportunities from virtually anywhere.
He encouraged young people to leverage digital platforms and artificial intelligence tools to start businesses, build brands, and create solutions to challenges within their communities.
According to him, entrepreneurship does not necessarily require individuals to quit their jobs immediately, noting that side businesses could provide additional income, professional growth, and long-term financial independence.
He advised aspiring entrepreneurs to identify practical problems, validate business ideas, develop simple solutions, and test them in the market before scaling up.
Dr Gaitu further highlighted critical entrepreneurial skills required in the modern economy, including adaptability, resilience, financial literacy, salesmanship, and effective communication.
Mr Israel Oriaku, Co-Founder of Nichub Capacity Development Centre, underscored the importance of internships as a bridge between academic learning and professional success.
He described internships as valuable opportunities that enable students and young graduates to gain practical experience, acquire industry knowledge, and build professional networks.
Mr Oriaku observed that many young people rushed into business ventures without first acquiring sufficient knowledge and practical exposure in their chosen fields.
“One of the greatest mistakes young people make is wanting to own businesses before learning the trade. Learning remains the smartest path to growth,” he said.
He encouraged participants to develop a clear vision for their future, identify successful individuals in their chosen fields, and seek opportunities to learn through internships, mentorship, and professional engagements.
Mr Oriaku urged the youth to remain humble, build meaningful relationships, and take deliberate steps toward achieving their career aspirations.
He emphasised that knowledge alone was not enough and that success depended on taking action, continuous learning, and commitment to personal development.
The speakers agreed that entrepreneurship, innovation, internships, and continuous learning were essential for young people seeking to thrive in an increasingly competitive and technology-driven global economy.
In a welcome address, Reverend Richard Buamah, Chief Executive Officer of IDSNet, said the summit was more than an event, describing it as “a call to purpose, a call to leadership, and a call to action.”
He noted that “the future we seek depends largely on the vision we nurture and the leadership we build today.
“Let this be a defining moment in your journey – a moment where vision is ignited and change truly begins. Together, let us rise, lead, and drive the change our generation needs,” he added.
Rev Buamah stressed that investment in young people was an investment in the future society desired.
GNA
Edited by Lydia Kukua Asamoah
Reporter: Maxwell Awumah
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