Former President John Dramani Mahama has reiterated his commitment to empowering the youth through technology, promising to train one million young Ghanaians in coding and software design. This announcement was made today during the National Democratic Congress (NDC) manifesto launch, highlighting a key pledge from the party’s 2020 manifesto.
Addressing a vibrant crowd, Mahama emphasized the NDC’s dedication to youth development and the digital economy, stating, “Just as we said in our 2020 manifesto, we are committed to providing one million of our youth with the necessary skills in coding and software design. This initiative is not just about jobs; it’s about preparing our young people to compete on a global scale in the rapidly evolving tech industry.”
A Vision for a Digital Future
Mahama’s announcement underscores the NDC’s focus on leveraging technology to address unemployment and underemployment among the youth. He highlighted that the training program would be a cornerstone of his administration’s agenda if elected into office, ensuring that Ghana’s youth are equipped with the skills needed to thrive in the 21st-century job market.
“We cannot afford to be left behind in this digital age. Our youth must be part of the global tech revolution, and that begins with comprehensive training in essential skills like coding and software design,” Mahama stated.
Implementation Strategy
The former president outlined a multi-faceted approach to implementing the training program, which would include partnerships with local and international tech firms, educational institutions, and government agencies. The initiative would also involve the establishment of tech hubs across the country, providing accessible spaces for training and innovation.
“Our plan is not just to train, but to create an environment where our young people can innovate, create, and ultimately contribute to the growth of our economy. We will work closely with industry leaders to ensure that the training is up-to-date with global standards,” Mahama assured.
Addressing Challenges and Building on Past Achievements
Mahama also took the opportunity to address concerns about the feasibility of such an ambitious project, pointing to his previous administration’s successes in expanding access to education and technology. He argued that with the right leadership and commitment, the goal of training one million youth is achievable.
“We have done it before, and we will do it again. We have the experience and the vision to transform this country. Our young people are our greatest asset, and this initiative will ensure that they are equipped to drive the future of Ghana,” he said.
Conclusion
As the NDC prepares for the upcoming elections, Mahama’s announcement has set the stage for a campaign that prioritizes youth empowerment and digital transformation. The promise to train one million youth in coding and software design not only resonates with the party’s base but also positions the NDC as a forward-thinking force in Ghanaian politics.
The success of this initiative could be a game-changer for the country’s digital landscape, providing a skilled workforce capable of tackling the challenges and opportunities of the global tech industry.
