The World Bank says Ghana’s rapidly growing youth population has the potential to significantly boost the country’s economy, but only if sufficient job opportunities are created.
In its 9th Economic Update for Ghana, titled Addressing Labour Market Challenges and Opportunities in Ghana’s Economic Landscape, the Bank projects a sharp increase in the number of working-age individuals over the next decade.
If these young people can secure quality employment, Ghana could reap substantial economic benefits.
However, without adequate job creation, this demographic advantage could be lost.
The report emphasizes the need to support youth in transitioning from education to employment by equipping them with relevant skills.
“A key focus should be on youth and their transition from school to work, ensuring they have the skills needed for a modern economy to provide strong employment opportunities – essential for realizing the demographic dividend,” the report stated.
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It also highlights the importance of enabling workers to move into higher-paying sectors, particularly agriculture and agro-processing, which hold promise for job creation.
Ghana’s economy grew by 5.7% in 2024 and 5.3% in early 2025, but challenges such as high inflation, elevated interest rates, and fiscal constraints persist.
To unlock the potential of its youth, the World Bank recommends that Ghana improve the business environment, address infrastructure gaps, invest in education and skills development, and promote private sector investment in high-employment industries.
Failure to act, the report warns, could mean missing a critical opportunity to harness the power of Ghana’s youth for long-term economic transformation.
DR/SA
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