Professor Isaac Boadi, a lecturer in Accounting and Finance at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA), has critically analyzed former President John Dramani Mahama’s policy proposals, branding them as outdated and ineffective for achieving economic transformation in Ghana. In his address at the ABCNews Economic Symposium held in Accra on December 2, 2024, Prof. Boadi expressed strong support for Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s policies, particularly his digitalization agenda. With the December 7 elections approaching, he emphasized that embracing progressive strategies and innovative technologies is crucial for Ghanaians looking towards a brighter economic future.
Prof. Boadi highlighted Dr. Bawumia’s digitalization agenda as a transformative approach that aims to create approximately 4 million jobs in the upcoming four years. This initiative intends to train the youth in essential IT skills, which he argues is a vital pathway for Ghana’s development. According to him, this forward-thinking policy contrasts sharply with what he perceives as Mahama’s impractical suggestions, such as small-scale poultry farming and youth using tricycles fitted with polytanks for agricultural purposes. He considers these methods as antiquated and warns that simplistic approaches lack the necessary transformative power to drive significant economic growth.
During his speech, Prof. Boadi emphasized that the current global economy is fueled by technological advancement rather than traditional agriculture. He characterized digitalization as a cornerstone of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, stressing its critical importance for Ghana’s economic resilience and progress. He articulated that aligning with contemporary economic trends is imperative to secure the nation’s future. By focusing on digitalization, Ghana can better leverage its resources and capabilities to foster sustainable economic growth, potentially elevating the country’s standing in the global market.
In addition to digitalization, Prof. Boadi pointed out other promising policy initiatives proposed by Dr. Bawumia, including flat-rated duties at ports and the cancellation of the controversial e-levy. He described these measures as sound economic strategies that would ultimately benefit the Ghanaian populace, proposing that they represent a more sustainable and effective framework for financial management compared to Mahama’s plans. This supportive stance underscores his belief in the efficacy of Dr. Bawumia’s policies to stimulate growth and improve the standard of living for Ghanaians.
Prof. Boadi further lauded the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) program, which he regarded as a landmark pro-poor initiative with unmatched significance in Ghana’s history. He argued that Free SHS has deeply transformed lives and stands as one of the most important legacies of the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia administration. He advocated for the re-election of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to ensure the continuity and advancement of this life-altering program, asserting that no previous administration’s achievements in Ghana have equaled its impact.
In concluding his remarks, Prof. Boadi earnestly appealed to Ghanaians to back Dr. Bawumia in the upcoming elections. He underscored that the Vice President’s manifesto promises have the potential to bring about substantial changes in the lives of citizens. He called upon the electorate to protect programs like Free SHS and sustain the momentum of Ghana’s development trajectory. By supporting policies that emphasize digitalization and education, Prof. Boadi believes that Ghana can firmly establish itself on a path to lasting economic and social progress, thereby ensuring a more prosperous future for its people.
