The Member of Parliament (MP) for Akuapem North, Sammi Awuku, has demanded answers from President John Dramani Mahama and Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson on youth unemployment ahead of the presentation of the 2027 Budget Statement.
In an open letter, Mr. Awuku questioned the impact of government’s flagship job creation interventions, particularly the 24-Hour Economy and the One Million Coders Programme, nearly two years into the Mahama administration.
He cited data from the Ghana Statistical Service which puts youth unemployment among persons aged 15 to 24 at about 32.4%, with close to two million Ghanaians aged 15 to 35 neither employed nor in education or training.
“Behind these figures are young people desperate for opportunities, decent jobs and the ability to become financially independent,” he said.
Mr. Awuku recalled President Mahama’s campaign promise of the 24-Hour Economy and the 1-3-3 job formula – One Job, Three Shifts, Three People – and asked: “How many jobs has the 24-Hour Economy created?”
On the One Million Coders Programme, he demanded to know how many participants have successfully completed the programme and how many have secured employment or begun earning an income as a result.
The MP also raised concerns about the rising cost of tertiary education, citing increasing hostel fees, food prices, transportation costs and learning materials.
He sought an update on the government’s No Fees Stress initiative, asking how many first-year students have benefited since its introduction and how many received support in time to take up their admissions without paying academic fees upfront.
Mr. Awuku further pointed to rising residential electricity and water tariffs, which he said continue to add financial pressure on households already struggling to support unemployed young people.
“Mr. President, a stable economy must translate into decent jobs and improved living conditions. Lower inflation figures mean little to a young graduate who cannot find a job or a student struggling to afford an education,” he stated.
He said the youth deserve more than campaign promises, but measurable results, clear timelines and a comprehensive plan for youth employment and development.
“The question is simple: Adwuma no wɔ he? Where are the jobs? Where is the hope you promised Ghana’s youth?
“The young people of this country voted for change. They are not asking for favours. They are asking for opportunities and your government must deliver. Please do something,” Mr. Awuku added.
