Naana Opoku-Agyemang reveals vision for youth, gender development
The former education minister has opened up on what the NDC intends to do for the youth, should the party be voted into power
The vice-presidential candidate of the opposition National Democratic Congress says the party will focus on youth and gender development should it emerge victorious in the 7 December polls.
Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang was outdoored as John Mahama’s running mate on Monday, 27 July 2020. She said the youth are critical to the success of any reforms in Ghana.
“First, we must be mindful of the fact that 60% of our population will be under the age of 30 in a few years,” she said.
“That is why it is so critical that we systematically reform all our systems to effectively address the aspirations of our youth and country.”
Education beyond access
Professor Opoku-Agyemang said the next NDC government will ensure that Ghana’s education is tailor-made to make a credible future vof the youth.
The country needs “meaningful, quality and comprehensive education that goes beyond the access and responds to the future we can actualise”.
There is a need to “leverage on vocational and technical training to equip many into meaningful and fulfilling work”, she said.
The former education minister noted the need to ensure Ghanaians enjoy equal opportunities based on merit and not favouritism.
“We must provide opportunities that transcend political patronage, ‘connection’ and the practice of whom-you-know. Equal and fair opportunities based on merit are imperative for sustainable economic growth. The time for that shift is now,” she said.
Litany of promises
Monday’s outdooring of the NDC’s running mate saw the flagbearer also make a number of campaign promises.
John Mahama said he will ensure that primary health care is made free for all Ghanaians if the NDC returns to power. He also promised to create one million jobs in his first term on office should the NDC be given the nod in the December polls.
He added that the next NDC government will be ruthless in dealing with corrupt individuals in both the private and public sectors.
“We will, as part of an Integrity for Development action plan, launch ‘Operation Sting’,” Mahama announced. Operation Sting is an anti-corruption crusade, which under my watch will involve massive, far-reaching and practical governmental reforms.
“It will be ruthless against all corrupt political appointees and public sector workers.”
E A Alanore
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