Dr. Afua Asabea Asare, the CEO of the Ghana Export Promotion Authority (GEPA), recently expressed her strong support for the Youth in Export programme, highlighting its significance as a transformative initiative for the nation. During a press briefing held in Accra, Dr. Asare emphasized that investing in the youth is crucial for equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge essential for success in an increasingly competitive global export market. The Youth in Export programme aims to empower young individuals by providing hands-on experience, mentorship, and sustainable employment opportunities across various industries, thereby enhancing Ghana’s position in the international export sector.
The programme is structured around a six-month intensive mentorship framework led by experienced exporters, allowing participants to gain practical insights directly related to their fields. To date, two cohorts of young aspiring entrepreneurs have graduated from the initiative. The first cohort predominantly focused on agribusiness, resulting in 20 young individuals successfully launching their first export ventures. The second cohort promises to have an even greater impact, with expectations to create more than 500 direct jobs for young Ghanaians. These successes illustrate the programme’s effectiveness in nurturing talent and fostering entrepreneurial spirit among the youth.
Looking ahead, Dr. Asare revealed that the upcoming third cohort of the Youth in Export programme will cast a wider net, incorporating participants from all regions of Ghana and diversifying sectors beyond agribusiness. This expansion is anticipated to generate over 4,000 job opportunities for the youth, underscoring the initiative’s potential to transform the demographics of Ghana’s export industry. Dr. Asare’s vision is to establish a new generation of skilled exporters who will make significant contributions to the nation’s economy while addressing youth unemployment.
The Youth in Export initiative is also strategically aligned with the goals of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement, which paves the way for new markets and opportunities for Ghanaian businesses. Dr. Asare highlighted that as Ghana endeavors to become a central player in regional trade, the engagement of the youth is imperative for achieving sustainable growth in exports. The collaboration of the Ministry of Trade and Industry with GEPA is vital in utilizing the opportunities presented by AfCFTA to expand the outreach of Ghanaian products across the continent.
Dr. Asare reiterated that empowering the youth is not merely an investment in individual futures but also a collective investment in the country’s economic resilience and competitiveness. By focusing on building a robust export sector, Ghana can enhance its ability to participate in the global economy effectively. The Youth in Export programme exemplifies a commitment to fostering a proactive stance on job creation and support for young entrepreneurs, championing their role as catalysts for economic transformation.
In summary, the Youth in Export programme led by GEPA represents a forward-thinking approach to tackling youth unemployment and enhancing Ghana’s export potential. By equipping young people with relevant skills and experience, and by facilitating connections with seasoned exporters, this initiative provides a blueprint for success in the competitive export landscape. As Ghana continues to navigate the complexities of regional trade dynamics, the importance of actively engaging and empowering youth cannot be overstated, positioning them as key players in the nation’s economic future.
