HR Focus Africa Conference 2026 experts urge inclusive leadership in Accra

John Awuah proposes national framework for youth entrepreneurship

John Awuah, the CEO of the Ghana Association of Banks, has called for the establishment of a comprehensive national framework to support youth employment through skilled trades and entrepreneurship. Speaking at the 15th Absa-UPSA Law School Quarterly Banking Roundtable in Accra, Awuah argued that the current reliance on formal corporate roles is insufficient to address the scale of unemployment among Ghanaian graduates. He urged policymakers to shift their focus toward providing young people with practical pathways to sustainable livelihoods. Awuah emphasized that the Ghanaian job market requires a paradigm shift away from the narrow focus on white-collar corporate positions. He highlighted a visible shortage of skilled tradespeople in the country and urged for the integration of entrepreneurship and vocational training into the educational system. According to the CEO, by equipping graduates with diverse and practical skill sets, the state can empower them to create their own opportunities rather than waiting for limited vacancies in the traditional corporate sector. The roundtable, held at the Absa Bank Ghana Head Office, brought together key stakeholders from the banking, legal, fintech, and regulatory sectors. While the broader discussion addressed digitalization and financial crimes, Awuah focused on the socio-economic implications of the youth employment crisis. He warned that a lack of productive work makes young people more vulnerable to social engineering and digital fraud, suggesting that expanded economic opportunities are a critical component of national security and financial integrity. Participants at the event, which included representatives from MobileMoney Fintech and various regulatory bodies, advocated for stronger collaboration between the financial sector and educational institutions. Awuah concluded that recognizing diverse forms of productive work beyond the office environment is essential for long-term economic stability. He stressed that a national job creation framework would ensure that the youth are not just educated, but are prepared for the evolving demands of the modern economy.