By Rebecca Ampah
Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah has reaffirmed government’s commitment to building an inclusive economy that guarantees equal opportunities for all citizens, with a strong focus on youth empowerment, job creation, and social justice.
The address was delivered on his behalf by deputy presidential spokesperson Shamima Muslim at the 2025 National Emerging Leaders Economic Forum, held at the University of Professional Studies,(UPSA) Auditorium, Accra . The forum, organized by VODEC Africa under the theme “Building an Inclusive Economy: Ensuring Equal Opportunities for All Citizens”, coincided with this year’s Founders’ Day celebrations.
According to him, Ghana’s transformation depends on ensuring that every citizen, particularly the youth, women, and vulnerable groups benefits from national development.
Julius Debrah emphasized that youth empowerment is not only a moral imperative but also a critical economic necessity. He cited alarming statistics showing that 1.9 million Ghanaian youth were not in employment, education, or training (NEET) last year, with women and persons with disabilities making up a significant portion.
“Doing nothing is not an option,” the address stressed. “An inclusive economy must deliberately create dignified jobs for young people, expand opportunities for women, protect the vulnerable, and ensure justice in the distribution of national resources.”
Outlining President Mahama’s Reset Agenda, the Chief of Staff noted that government is pursuing bold initiatives anchored on Jobs, Accountability, and Shared Prosperity. Key interventions include the newly established Youth Ministry, which oversees agencies such as the Youth Employment Agency, the National Youth Authority, the National Service Authority, and the National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme.
Flagship policies such as the 24-Hour Economy, the National Apprenticeship Programme, the Adwumawura Programme, the Youth Entrepreneurship Fund, and the One Million Coders initiative are designed to equip young Ghanaians with skills, resources, and opportunities to thrive.
“The Adwumawura Programme alone is expected to support the creation of 10,000 youth-led enterprises annually through 200 hubs nationwide,” the address stated. “With initiatives like the Farm Bank Project, No Fees Stress Policy, and the Big Push infrastructure agenda, government is ensuring that the youth are not just participants in growth but owners of the commanding heights of the economy.”
The chief of staff also highlighted the global and continental dimensions of youth empowerment, noting that Africa is the world’s youngest region, with over 60 percent of its population under the age of 30. While this presents a massive opportunity, he cautioned that it could also pose risks if quality education, skills, and jobs are not prioritized.
The address concluded with a reminder to young leaders of their critical role in shaping Ghana’s future, quoting anthropologist Margaret Mead: “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, concerned citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”
