Professor Enoch Opoku Antwi, the Dean of Academic Students at Academic City University College, has expressed concern over Africa’s leadership crisis and its detrimental impact on the continent’s economy and people. In order to address this issue, he strongly urges the leaders of African countries to capitalize on the opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area (ACFTA) to foster trade partnerships and stimulate economic growth.
During an interview with Oyerepa News at the George Ayitey Memorial Awards held in Accra, Professor Antwi emphasized the importance of the ACFTA in creating job opportunities for African youth. He believes that the ACFTA has the potential to generate up to 60% of new jobs for the youth, making it imperative for leaders to engage in trade with neighbouring countries.
Professor Antwi further asserts that it is high time for the African youth to seize such initiatives and contribute to the continent’s growth. He criticizes the older generation for their failure to effectively utilize Africa’s abundant natural resources for the benefit of its people. In his view, leadership has let down Africans by mismanaging these resources.
The George Ayitey Memorial Awards, organized by the Africa Centre for Entrepreneurship and Youth Employment (ACEYE), aim to inspire Ghanaian individuals, particularly the youth, who possess a strong drive for innovation.
In conclusion, Professor Antwi’s call for African leaders to embrace the ACFTA and prioritize trade partnerships serves as a crucial step towards addressing the continent’s leadership crisis and fostering economic development.
Mr. Emmanuel Acquah, the CEO of the Africa Centre for Entrepreneurship and Youth Employment (ACEYE), passionately urged the youth to give their utmost effort, assuring them that brighter days lie ahead. He emphasized that the current challenges they face will eventually transform into opportunities for a better future.
He further explained that the establishment of this award is a tribute to George Ayitey, aiming to inspire young individuals to follow his visionary approach towards nation-building.
Mr. Acquah believes that honouring the older generation is a step in the right direction, as it not only pays homage to their contributions but also serves as a source of inspiration for the younger generation to lead by example.
Dr. Richmond Kwesi Ansah, the esteemed founder of ACEYE, echoed Mr. Acquah’s sentiments and urged the youth to refrain from relying too heavily on politicians. He emphasized that the current state of politics in Ghana is not yielding positive results, largely due to the negative attitudes of the citizens.
Dr. Ansah firmly believes that the future of our nation can only be bright if every Ghanaian takes responsibility for their actions and actively works towards a better Ghana. He took this opportunity to advise the youth against engaging in violent demonstrations, emphasizing the importance of peaceful means to bring about change.
Source: Oyerepafmonline.com / Bernard K Dadzie
