Government Develops 1 Million Coders Programmes – Dr. Abdul-Rashid Hassan Pelpuo

The Minister for Labour, Jobs and Employment, Dr. Abdul-Rashid Hassan Pelpuo, has disclosed that the government has developed a 1 million coders programme to ensure that young people fully participate in the global digital economy.

He said that digital literacy and Information and Communications Technology (ICT) skills are now a foundational skill. Noting that, beyond technical skills, soft skills and leadership development, critical thinking has been incorporated into the education reforms to nurture confident and innovative youth.

He disclosed this on Friday at the 20th India Africa Business Conclave in New Delhi, India.

Dr. Pelpuo stated that human capital development was at the core of Ghana’s development agenda.

“We see it as the pathway to harnessing our demographic dividend and building inclusive prosperity,” he emphasised.

He said the Ghanaian government recognises the difficult task that Africa faces and stated that one of Africa’s best resources for innovation, development, and change was its youthful people.

“To turn this potential into real progress, we must equip young people with relevant education, skills, and opportunities,” he added.

The minister stated that the increasing youth population in Africa offers a range of opportunities and numerous challenges for policymakers to address.

“This is because, on average, 11 million young people join the labour market in Africa each year, while an estimated 3.7 million jobs are created annually across the continent,” he added.

According to the minister, the combined efforts are essential to sustain investment in human capital development and the strengthening of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and ICT systems, with industry partners, must be non-negotiable.

“Promoting entrepreneurship through financing, incubation hubs, mentorship, and market access must remain a topmost priority. Curbing irregular migration by creating viable, decent jobs in rural and urban communities must be our major preoccupation,” he emphasised.

He stated that Ghana remains committed to developing systems that empower the youth, foster innovation, and create opportunities for all.

Dr. Pelpuo believes that strengthening collaboration between African nations and with partners like India will not only let Africa meet its development aspirations but also contribute meaningfully to shaping the future global economy.

Grace Acheampong, ISD