Ghana has marked a historic milestone in its quest to build an inclusive, resilient economy with the official onboarding and orientation of the first cohort of beneficiaries under the government’s Adwumawura Program.
At a matriculation ceremony held at the Cedi Conference Room of the University of Ghana, Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang celebrated the enrollment of 10,000 young Ghanaians into the flagship youth enterprise initiative, describing it as a defining moment in the nation’s economic transformation agenda.
Addressing beneficiaries and stakeholders, the Vice President emphasized that the program is not just about providing funds or skills training, but about building a comprehensive entrepreneurial ecosystem capable of reshaping Ghana’s future.
“Today’s onboarding and orientation program is an exciting milestone in Ghana’s pursuit of economic transformation through enterprise development. We are making a statement that the nation is determined to invest in our young people, and the young people remain our greatest resource”.
Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang
Professor Opoku-Agyemang attributed the program’s vision to President John Dramani Mahama, who, she said, has consistently maintained that Ghana’s real wealth lies not in its natural resources but in the creativity, energy, and determination of its people.
“The Adwumawura program is a direct expression of that conviction. In April 2025, the program was launched with one clear mission—for Ghana’s youth to lead the charge in innovation, job creation, and national transformation.”
Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang
According to her, the overwhelming response from applicants to the 2025 cohort reflects a groundswell of enthusiasm among young people eager to chart a new path in entrepreneurship.
Meritorious and Rigorous
She highlighted that the 10,000 selected beneficiaries were chosen through a rigorous and transparent process involving representatives from government, academia, the private sector, and development partners. “The beneficiaries we celebrate today are not here by chance. Rather, they demonstrated potential, determination, and a readiness to embrace the task ahead,” she stressed.
The Vice President explained that the Adwumawura program is designed to be far-reaching, combining training, mentorship, start-up kits, and access to markets and networks. Beneficiaries will receive practical training in business planning, financial management, digital skills, customer service, and sustainability strategies.
“This program is comprehensive and supports entrepreneurs as they go through the growth and scaling of their businesses,” she said. However, she cautioned the youth that their long-term success would depend on discipline, integrity, and resilience.
“This opportunity is only the beginning. What will make the difference is your commitment, your focus, your discipline, your honesty, and flexibility. Believe me, there will be challenges and setbacks. No business, no matter how successful, is free from these. What will set you apart is how you rise above them and continue to innovate regardless”.
Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang
Professor Opoku-Agyemang also acknowledged the crucial role of trainers and mentors in ensuring the program’s success. “You are not just facilitators, but mentors and role models. Your training and engagement with these young people will be an important factor in their success,” she said, adding that trainers must help build entrepreneurs who are not only skilled but also ethical, innovative, and committed to creating lasting enterprises.
She further extended gratitude to key stakeholders and collaborators including the National Youth Authority (NYA), Ghana Enterprise Agency (GEA), Masloc, the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Youth Development and Empowerment, the British Council, and the University of Ghana Business School. Looking ahead, she expressed optimism that institutions like the Women’s Development Bank would also become key partners in scaling the program.
Sustainable Financing
While commending the judicious use of already allocated funds, the Vice President acknowledged growing calls for more resources to sustain and expand the initiative. “I hear the plea for more funds. I have no doubt that what has been allocated is already being used so judiciously. And therefore, it justifies asking for more,” she remarked.
Describing the Adwumawura program as an integral part of Ghana’s national agenda to build resilience and self-reliance, she underscored its significance in demonstrating that Ghanaian innovation can compete globally. “Our youth are not waiting for tomorrow. They are already leading today through entrepreneurship, creativity, and service,” she affirmed.
For Professor Opoku-Agyemang, the success of the program rests squarely on the shoulders of its pioneers. She reminded the beneficiaries that their outcomes would shape the path for those who follow.
“Remember that as the first cohort, you are pioneers of this program. Your example and outcomes will affect those coming after you. The government and our partners will give you the foundation. We are rooting for you. You must be actively responsible for the building process,” she urged.
Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang
In concluding her address, the Vice President delivered a heartfelt charge to the beneficiaries to live up to the weight of the opportunity before them, stressing that the program exists because of their potential, and it will succeed because of their commitment.
On behalf of our President, John Dramani Mahama, the government and peoples of Ghana, I urge all of you not to lose sight of the gravity of this moment. Carry yourselves as trailblazers and build businesses that will provide for you and your families, employ others, solve community problems, and contribute to national growth”.
Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang
The matriculation and onboarding ceremony ended with a renewed conviction that the Adwumawura program is not just about today’s celebration but about shaping Ghana’s entrepreneurial future—one bold step at a time.
READ ALSO: Banks Cut Lending Costs as Ghana Reference Rate Drops 200 Basis Points
