Dr. Sammy Ayeh, a member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) National Communication Team, has strongly criticized the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) for its handling of the economy, particularly in relation to youth unemployment and the education sector.
Speaking on Think Tv's political show, SE NO PEI, on behalf of the NDC, Dr. Ayeh outlined a series of economic and social challenges facing Ghanaians under the current administration, contrasting these with the achievements and forward-looking promises of former President John Dramani Mahama.
Dr. Ayeh began by addressing the alarming rise in unemployment, which he attributes directly to the NPP's economic policies.
"Under the NDC, unemployment was at 8%. Today, under the NPP, it has doubled to a staggering 16%. This means that 1.9 million of our youth are unemployed—a clear sign of the current government's failure to create job opportunities," Dr. Ayeh stated.
Highlighting former President Mahama's commitment to reversing this trend, Dr. Ayeh detailed plans to equip one million young Ghanaians with essential skills to improve their employment prospects.
"John Mahama has promised to implement comprehensive training programs aimed at empowering one million youths. These programs are designed to provide the skills necessary for sustainable employment, addressing the unemployment crisis head-on," Dr. Ayeh explained.
He also pointed to the Accra Digital Centre as a key part of Mahama’s vision for youth employment, particularly in the tech industry.
"The Accra Digital Centre, under Mahama’s leadership, is expected to create jobs for 300,000 young people. This initiative reflects Mahama’s foresight in recognizing the digital economy as a vital sector for the future," Dr. Ayeh added.
Turning to the education sector, Dr. Ayeh criticized the NPP's economic mismanagement, which he claims has severely impacted young Ghanaians' access to education.
"In the 2022/23 academic year, 420,000 young Ghanaians graduated. However, while 60% passed their exams, only 32% could afford to continue their education. This is a direct result of the financial hardships imposed by the NPP’s poor economic policies," he said.
Dr. Ayeh further criticized the NPP for the sharp decline in the value of the cedi, which has worsened economic conditions for ordinary Ghanaians.
"In 2016, the exchange rate was GHS 4 to the dollar. Today, it stands at GHS 16. This steep depreciation is a testament to the NPP’s disastrous economic management. A responsible leader must be sensitive to the hardships faced by the people, but the current administration has shown little empathy," Dr. Ayeh remarked.
In contrast, Dr. Ayeh highlighted Mahama's commitment to easing financial burdens on students, particularly those entering university.
"Mahama has recognized the financial difficulties faced by level 100 students and is determined to introduce measures that will make life easier for them," he noted.
Dr. Ayeh also accused the NPP of mismanaging the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund), which he argues has made it harder for students to access the financial support they need for their education.
"The NPP's mismanagement of GETFund has created unnecessary obstacles for students. This fund is crucial for educational financing, and its poor handling is yet another example of the NPP’s failure to prioritize the needs of Ghanaians," he stated.
In conclusion, Dr. Ayeh praised Mahama’s policies as both fiscally responsible and in good faith.
He pointed to Mahama's pledge to reduce the number of ministers and their deputies to 60 as evidence of his commitment to efficient governance.
"Unlike the NPP, the NDC under Mahama will ensure that public funds are spent wisely, with every cedi working to benefit the people," Dr. Ayeh said.
Dr. Ayeh closed by expressing confidence in Mahama’s ability to restore Ghana’s economy and improve the lives of its citizens.
"Ghana’s economy is in a dire state, but with Mahama’s leadership, there is hope for a turnaround. His plans, particularly for the youth, will make life better for all Ghanaians," Dr. Ayeh concluded.
Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith
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