‘Paper promises’ leaving Ghanaian youth jobless — Minority

The Minority in Parliament has expressed concern over Ghana’s youth unemployment, accusing the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) of falling short on its promises, especially in public sector reforms and job creation.

Speaking at a press briefing on Monday, 3 February, Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin described the country’s reported unemployment figures as alarming.

“The report is that we have some 34 per cent youth unemployment rate, and this is very unacceptable. The question is, where are the jobs given all the promises?” he asked.

Mr Afenyo-Markin criticised several government programmes, arguing that they exist largely on paper without meaningful impact.

“While the NDC was quick to roll out programmes on paper, we hear Adwuma Wura, National Apprenticeship Programme, Nkoko nkitinkiti. Well, they are paper promises, but in reality, what are the tangible outcomes? Even if any existed, they are scanty, and this is their year two; the honeymoon is over,” he said.

He also condemned the cancellation of the One District, One Factory (1D1F) initiative, describing the absence of a replacement policy for the private sector as worrying.

“They have cancelled the 1D1F; in its place, there is no alternative policy programme for the private sector. I have not heard the Minister of Trade and Industry announcing a major private sector initiative to create economic growth is zero, yet they have cancelled the 1D1F,” he stated.

Touching on public sector reforms, the Minority Leader questioned the government’s commitment in that area.

“They promised public sector reforms, but so far, the minister responsible for public sector reform cannot be found. We have not seen any major announcement, even in the budget, as if that ministry is non-existent. So in terms of public sector reforms, we are yet to see any serious intervention,” he added.

Mr Afenyo-Markin urged the government to move beyond what he described as “paper programmes” and deliver tangible results, stressing that urgent action is needed to address the growing concerns of unemployed young Ghanaians.

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