Prez. Mahama charges Youth to Prepare for Ghana’s Digital Future

By Maame Efua Kwaduah

President John Dramani Mahama, has urged young people across the country to take advantage of opportunities in the digital age while preparing themselves with discipline and determination for the future.

Speaking during the 69th Independence Day celebration held at the Jubilee House, the president emphasized the important role young people play in shaping Ghana’s national development and future progress.

Addressing the youth directly, President Mahama said he understands both their potential and the frustrations many of them experience. He assured them that their voices, concerns and aspirations are being recognized at the highest level of national leadership.

“To the young people of this country, I see you, I hear you and I believe in your potential,” he said, adding that Ghana’s future will largely depend on how well its youth prepare themselves to seize the opportunities ahead.

President Mahama explained that today’s generation occupies a unique position because of the technological tools available to them. He noted that devices such as smartphones have significantly expanded access to education, entrepreneurship and global engagement in ways previous generations could hardly imagine.

However, the president acknowledged that many young people still face challenges, including unemployment and limited opportunities after completing their education. He said the government is aware of these concerns and is taking steps to address them through targeted policies and strategic investments.

According to him, government is expanding digital infrastructure and supporting programmes aimed at promoting entrepreneurship and innovation among young people. These initiatives, he said, are designed to equip the youth with the skills needed to compete in a technology-driven global economy.

He also revealed that innovation hubs and support programmes are being established across different parts of the country to ensure that opportunities are not limited to the capital city alone. These initiatives are being introduced in major cities including Accra, Kumasi, Tamale, Takoradi, Ho and Koforidua.

“These programmes are designed to support your ideas and help you transform them into viable businesses and careers. We want young people everywhere in Ghana to have access to the tools they need to succeed,” he stated.

Beyond infrastructure development and entrepreneurship support, the president highlighted reforms currently underway in the education sector. He explained that government is working to align educational programmes with the realities of the modern economy so that graduates are better prepared for employment and innovation.

As part of this effort, internship and apprenticeship opportunities are being expanded for students. President Mahama noted that these initiatives are intended to bridge the gap between classroom learning and practical work experience, enabling young people to acquire the skills required by employers and industries.

Despite these government interventions, the president stressed that national progress will ultimately depend on the commitment and mindset of young people themselves.

He therefore encouraged the youth to cultivate discipline, resilience and a strong work ethic as they pursue their ambitions.

“Success will also depend on discipline, resilience and excellence; the future belongs to those who prepare for it,” he said.

President Mahama also used the occasion to recognize students who have demonstrated academic excellence and leadership. He congratulated fifty-two students who were recently honoured with the President’s Independence Day Award for school children earlier in the week.

The award recognizes outstanding academic performance and dedication among students across the country. According to the president, such achievements highlight the immense potential within Ghana’s youth and underscore the importance of nurturing talent through education and mentorship.

President Mahama commended Keta Secondary Technical School for winning the 69th Independence Day Quiz Competition and further congratulated winners of this year’s National Debates Competition, describing the achievements as examples of academic excellence and noting that such programmes encourage critical thinking, public speaking and civic engagement among young people, adding that all the participants represent the promise of Ghana’s future.

He reaffirmed his confidence in the country’s younger generation. While acknowledging the challenges they face, he expressed optimism that with the right support systems, effective policies and personal commitment, Ghana’s youth will play a decisive role in shaping the nation’s economic and social progress.