The writer
By Andy Akuffo
The flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the current Vice President, Alhaji Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, stands at the forefront of a transformative vision for Ghana. The NPP’s manifesto under his leadership presents a clear and compelling roadmap that differentiates it as a game-changer, setting it apart from the offerings of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
This manifesto is a collection of promises and a strategic plan aimed at addressing Ghana’s most pressing challenges with innovative solutions that enhance economic growth, job creation and social development. Besides, one of the key pillars of the NPP manifesto is its ambitious plan to train 1,000,000 youth in digital skills. In a rapidly digitising world, this initiative is promising. It will prepare the youth for the future and ensure that Ghana remains competitive in the global digital economy.
It is crucial that by equipping the youth with relevant skills, the NPP is laying the foundation for a robust digital economy, which will be essential in driving innovation and creating new job opportunities.
Job creation
The NPP’s focus on job creation through private-sector construction and infrastructure development, industrialisation, and agribusiness is another significant departure from the NDC’s approach. I believe that by enhancing partnerships with the private sector, the NPP aims to catalyse economic growth and create sustainable jobs.
This is complemented by their plan to create jobs for artisans and built environment professionals through a revived and resourced Public Works Department (PWD). The move is strategic, as it addresses unemployment and ensures the maintenance of public infrastructure, which is critical for national development.
The introduction of the SME Bank by the NPP is a bold step towards empowering small and medium-sized enterprises, which are the backbone of Ghana’s economy. It is worthy of note that by creating SME jobs, the NPP is ensuring that businesses have access to the financial resources they need to grow and thrive. This, in turn, will lead to more job creation and a more resilient economy.
In addition, the NPP plans to create jobs through the minerals industry and its value chain. By tapping into Ghana’s rich natural resources, the NPP aims to create value-added jobs that will boost the economy and create wealth for the nation. This is in stark contrast to the NDC’s approach, which has often focused on short-term gains rather than long-term sustainable development.
Security service
Furthermore, the NPP’s commitment to employ more security service personnel and recruit more special needs teachers highlights their dedication to both security and social inclusivity. Setting quotas for the recruitment of persons with disabilities (PWDs) for public sector jobs is a testament to the NPP’s commitment to inclusivity and equal opportunities for all Ghanaians.
The NPP’s manifesto also addresses the need for fiscal responsibility. By cutting 3% of GDP from government expenditure and redirecting it towards the private sector’s provision of public infrastructure and services, the NPP aims to stimulate economic growth while maintaining fiscal discipline. Their proposal to introduce a flat-rate tax system will simplify tax administration, making it easier for businesses to comply with tax obligations and fostering an environment conducive to economic growth.
The NPP’s manifesto, under the leadership of Alhaji Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, presents a comprehensive and forward-thinking plan that sets it apart from the NDC. With a clear focus on job creation, economic growth, and social inclusivity, the NPP is poised to drive Ghana towards a more prosperous and equitable future.
The writer is an Executive Assistant to the CEO of the National Service Scheme (NSS). Email:ananaakuffo1@gmail.com
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