The North Tongu Member of Parliament, Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has launched a youth empowerment program, aimed at driving youth development in his constituency.
The program, designed to equip and inspire young people with tools for self-sufficiency and sustainable livelihoods witnessed an impressive turnout and saw the distribution of vital resources to empower local youth, including laptops, sewing machines, hairdryers, and financial support for traders.
In a statement following the event, Hon. Ablakwa expressed pride and gratitude for the durbar’s success and its potential to uplift the young people of North Tongu. “My beloved North Tongu’s Youth Empowerment Durbar was phenomenal!” he said.
He underscored the event’s commitment to providing tangible resources for various groups, especially young entrepreneurs and students.
Supporting Youth with Resources for Success
With a focus on fostering skill development, Hon. Ablakwa distributed laptops to final-year tertiary students, acknowledging the critical role of technology in education and career readiness. This gesture aligns with ongoing efforts to bridge the digital divide in rural communities, where access to modern technology often remains limited.
He also donated sewing machines and hairdryers to apprentices, offering them practical tools to kickstart their careers in tailoring and cosmetology. Financial aid was also extended to local traders, aimed at boosting small businesses and providing financial stability in these challenging economic times.
A highlight of the event was the participation of Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, former Minister of Education and current Vice-Presidential Candidate for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the upcoming 2024 elections.
Describing her as “ever inspirational,” Hon. Ablakwa acknowledged her presence as an endorsement of the initiative’s objectives and a motivational force for the attendees.
Hon. Ablakwa stated that Prof. Opoku-Agyemang’s commitment to youth empowerment through quality education and skills training has been a hallmark of her political and educational career.
Mahama’s Vision for Nationwide Youth Empowerment
Building on the theme of youth empowerment, Hon. Ablakwa emphasized the broader empowerment schemes proposed by former President John Dramani Mahama, NDC’s 2024 Presidential Candidate.
According to Hon. Ablakwa, former President Mahama’s plan focuses on expanding national initiatives that would enhance opportunities and resources for young people across Ghana.
He highlighted former President Mahama’s commitment to establishing a National Apprenticeship Programme, the 1 Million Coders Initiative, a Laptops for Students Intervention, and a No Admission Fees Policy to ease the financial burden of higher education for families.
In addition to promoting educational access, Hon. Ablakwa reiterated former President Mahama’s proposed “24-hour economy” to create incentives for startups and a dynamic job creation agenda that embraces non-traditional work hours, allowing businesses to operate around the clock.
This, he argued would boost employment and create economic opportunities for youth nationwide, reshaping the economy and reducing youth unemployment.
In wrapping up his statement, Hon. Ablakwa firmly believes that empowering the youth is essential to Ghana’s future. He reiterated, “If we don’t empower the youth, we cannot build our nation.”
The National Democratic Congress Member of Parliament, Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa’s work in North Tongu reflects his commitment to this belief, as he continues to champion initiatives that equip the younger generation with tools and opportunities to succeed in a competitive job market.
The MP concluded his statement with a personal assurance to his constituents: “I shall keep giving my beloved North Tongu my very best.”
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