President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, in his final State of the Nation Address (SONA) delivered to Parliament on January 3, 2025, expressed his deep appreciation to the Ghanaian people for the opportunity to serve as their President for the past eight years. He characterized the experience as the greatest honor of his life and reflected on the journey of his administration, emphasizing the accomplishments and progress made toward realizing his vision of a self-reliant and progressive Ghana. This vision, he articulated, has been a driving force throughout his tenure, a dream centered on empowering the nation to chart its own course and build a prosperous future.
Central to the President’s address was the resounding success of the Free Senior High School (SHS) program. He underscored the transformative impact of this flagship initiative, highlighting the provision of free secondary education to over five million students who might otherwise have been denied this vital opportunity. The President emphasized the program’s crucial role in shaping the future of Ghana by ensuring a more educated and skilled populace, thereby contributing to national development and socioeconomic advancement. He positioned the Free SHS program as a cornerstone of his administration’s commitment to investing in human capital and building a strong foundation for future generations.
Beyond the Free SHS program, President Akufo-Addo also highlighted the significant strides made in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET). He detailed the government’s efforts to modernize and expand TVET infrastructure, including the retooling of existing institutions and the establishment of 35 new TVET centers across the country. This focus on TVET, he explained, is a key component of the strategy to equip young Ghanaians with the practical skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in the modern workforce. The President emphasized the importance of aligning education with industry needs, fostering innovation, and creating a more competitive and adaptable labor force prepared for the challenges and opportunities of a rapidly evolving global economy.
Reflecting on the broader economic landscape, President Akufo-Addo acknowledged the challenges faced during his tenure, particularly the global economic downturn and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. He commended the resilience and determination of the Ghanaian people in navigating these difficult circumstances, emphasizing the collective effort required to steer the nation toward recovery and growth. He pointed to specific economic initiatives implemented by his administration aimed at stimulating job creation, promoting entrepreneurship, and fostering a more conducive environment for investment and economic expansion. The President reiterated his belief in the potential of Ghana to achieve sustainable development and become a beacon of prosperity in the region.
As he prepared to leave office, President Akufo-Addo expressed his unwavering commitment to supporting Ghana’s continued progress, even in his capacity as a private citizen. He affirmed his belief in the strength and resilience of Ghanaian institutions and the collective ability of the people to overcome challenges and achieve their aspirations. He emphasized the importance of unity, national cohesion, and a shared vision for the future, urging all Ghanaians to work together towards building a more prosperous and equitable society. He expressed confidence in the incoming administration and pledged to support their efforts in continuing the trajectory of progress and development.
In closing, President Akufo-Addo expressed his profound gratitude for the opportunity to have served the nation and reiterated his deep and abiding faith in the future of Ghana. He painted a picture of a nation poised for continued growth and development, a nation capable of realizing its full potential and taking its rightful place on the global stage. He left office with a message of hope and optimism, urging all Ghanaians to embrace the future with confidence and work together to build the Ghana of their dreams. He expressed his pride in the collective achievements made during his tenure and reiterated his unwavering belief in the bright future that lies ahead for the nation and its people.
