In a bid to win the trust and hearts of the Ghanaian youth ahead of the 2024 general elections, John Dramani Mahama, the flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has unveiled an ambitious youth manifesto titled “The Pledge.” This manifesto, launched by Mahama, outlines 15 key promises aimed at transforming the lives of young Ghanaians.
The 24-Hour Economy:
According to the NDC’s National Communications Officer, Sammy Gyamfi, the 24-hour policy will operate on a 1:3:3 formula, meaning the same job will be divided into three shifts, each employing three different people. This approach is designed to maximize employment opportunities.
National Apprenticeship Program:
Gyamfi stated that this apprenticeship program aims to combat youth unemployment by providing young Ghanaians with free vocational training under senior craftsmen. Graduates will receive certification and start-up support to establish their own businesses.
“Adwumawura” Program:
This initiative will focus on the creation, tracking, and mentoring of 10,000 new businesses annually by young people, fostering entrepreneurship and job creation.
Enhanced Free SHS:
The next Mahama administration will not only improve the Free SHS program by securing sustainable funding but also eliminate the double-track system, include private schools, and decentralize food procurement to streamline operations.
No Fees Stress:
The next NDC government plans to introduce free tertiary education for all Level 100 students in public institutions starting in January 2025. This policy is expected to cost GHS275 million, which will be funded by reducing the GHS2 billion expenditure of the Office of Government Machinery.
Reintroduction of SLTF Plus:
Reintroducing and redeploying the Student Loan Trust Fund (SLTF) Plus is intended to support continuing students, easing the financial burden on tertiary students.
Bed-for-All Initiative:
The NDC government led by John Dramani Mahama will partner with the private sector to address accommodation shortages in public tertiary institutions by developing affordable on-campus housing.
Free Tertiary Education for Persons with Disabilities:
To promote inclusivity and equal opportunity, the next NDC government will ensure that persons with disabilities who qualify for tertiary education can attend public institutions for free.
Licensure Exams Reform:
The NDC plans to cancel the current licensure exams for trained teachers, instead incorporating the licensing examination into their final year assessments.
Scrapping of the Quota System:
To expand enrollment in nursing and teacher training colleges, the next Mahama administration will eliminate the quota system.
Automatic Employment for Health and Education Graduates:
The NDC has promised to restore the automatic posting of trained nurses, teachers, and other health professionals, ensuring immediate employment upon graduation.
One Million Coders Program:
Aiming to bolster the digital economy, a Mahama-led NDC government will train one million youth in coding and other digital skills essential for the growing BPO and KPO sectors.
Digital Jobs Initiative:
The next NDC government plans to invest $3 billion in ICT to create a minimum of 300,000 jobs through a new Digital Jobs Initiative.
PLC/SEC Certification:
The NDC will promote Prior Learning Certification and Set-Up Certification to help artisans in the informal sector validate and enhance their skills for better career progression.
MO-NE-YO Insurance Scheme:
The NDC will introduce the MO-NE-YO scheme to provide pension benefits to informal sector workers, including commercial drivers, farmers, and market women, ensuring a secure livelihood in retirement.
These bold initiatives underscore Mahama’s commitment to youth development and economic empowerment as the NDC seeks to recapture power in 2024. Sammy Gyamfi hinted that more policies would be unveiled in the coming months, promising a comprehensive approach to addressing the challenges faced by Ghanaian youth.
