Youth Urged to Build Skills for Ghana’s Future
By Maame Efua Kwaduah
Young people in Ghana have been urged to move beyond academic qualifications by embracing practical skills, innovation, discipline and lifelong learning to position themselves for opportunities in an increasingly competitive global economy.
The call was made at the 2026 National Youth Mentorship Summit by the Senior Manager for Financial Operations at MobileMoney Fintech Limited, Makafui K. Mattah, and the General Manager for Sustainability and Shared Value at MTN Ghana, Georgina A. Fiagbenu, who encouraged students to become problem-solvers and active contributors to Ghana’s development.
Speaking on the theme, “Youth Innovation and Wealth Creation: Shaping Ghana’s Future,” Mr. Mattah said although a university degree remains valuable, it is no longer enough to guarantee long-term career success.
According to him, employers are increasingly looking beyond academic certificates to practical competencies, professional portfolios and evidence of problem-solving abilities.
He explained that advances in artificial intelligence, big data, cybersecurity and digital technologies have transformed the labour market, making digital literacy and technical competence essential across all professions.
Mr. Mattah encouraged students to acquire practical skills through online learning platforms such as the MTN Ghana Foundation Skills Academy, Coursera, Udemy, ALX and YouTube, while taking internships, volunteering and undertaking personal projects that demonstrate their capabilities.
He also stressed the importance of communication, critical thinking, adaptability, creativity, teamwork and emotional intelligence, describing them as qualities that sustain long-term career growth.
According to him, “technical skills may get you hired, but human skills are what keep you employed and prepare you for leadership.”
He challenged young people to stop asking where the jobs are and instead focus on preparing themselves for opportunities by continuously improving their knowledge and competencies.
Mr. Mattah further advised students to embrace lifelong learning, stressing that graduation should mark the beginning rather than the end of professional development.
Also addressing the summit, the General Manager for Sustainability and Shared Value at MTN Ghana, Georgina A. Fiagbenu, urged young people to “sit up, show up and show up with excellence,” saying preparation, discipline and character remain critical to career success.
She observed that while many young people complain about unemployment, employers often struggle to find candidates who possess the required skills, professionalism and work ethic.
Mrs. Fiagbenu recounted her own career journey, explaining that many of her opportunities came through competence, hard work and recommendations rather than submitting numerous job applications.
She encouraged students to develop a reputation for excellence because they never know who may be observing their work or recommending them for future opportunities.
She also challenged young people to reduce time spent on distractions and instead focus on developing skills, creating solutions and adding value to society.
Using the example of the Buz Stop Boys, she noted that the group identified a sanitation problem and transformed it into an opportunity to create national impact through innovation and community service.
She urged participants to become solution providers instead of waiting for employment opportunities, stressing that Ghana’s future depends on young people who are prepared to lead with competence, discipline and integrity.
