By Stanley Kwabla Arku
Vice President, Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, says government is sending a clear message that it is committed to investing in Ghana’s youth, who she described as the nation’s greatest resource.
Speaking at the onboarding and orientation ceremony of the Adwumawura Programme at the University of Ghana, the Vice President said the initiative marks a bold step in Ghana’s journey toward economic transformation through entrepreneurship and innovation.
“We are making a statement that the nation is determined to invest in our young people, who remain our greatest resource,” she declared.
The Adwumawura Programme, launched in April 2025, attracted more than 120,000 applications from across the country, reflecting the determination and ambition of Ghanaian youth. From this pool, 10,000 young men and women were selected as the first cohort, beginning what the Vice President described as a “national movement” for enterprise-led transformation.
She noted that the programme offers much more than financial support. Beneficiaries will undergo practical training in areas such as business planning, financial management, customer service, digital skills, and sustainability. They will also benefit from mentorship, start-up kits, and access to networks and markets to help grow their businesses into sustainable ventures.
The Vice President urged the beneficiaries to approach the opportunity with seriousness and resilience. “This opportunity is only the beginning. What will make the difference is commitment, discipline, honesty, and flexibility. There will be challenges, but what will set you apart is how you rise above them and continue to innovate,” she advised.
She further acknowledged the role of stakeholders, including NEIP, NYA, GEA, MASLOC, AGRA, the British Council, the University of Ghana Business School, and development partners for their collaboration in shaping the programme into a practical and impactful initiative.
Prof. Opoku-Agyemang encouraged the young entrepreneurs to see themselves as pioneers, whose example will inspire future cohorts. “This programme exists because of your potential, and it will succeed because of your commitment. Every entrepreneur we empower today is taking an important step towards the Ghana we want,” she added.
The Adwumawura Programme forms part of government’s broader agenda to build a resilient, self-reliant economy that leverages the innovation and energy of Ghana’s youth.