Former Senior Presidential Advisor, Yaw Osafo-Maafo, has called on the government to increase investment in books and reading, cautioning that society’s growing dependence on digital technologies and Artificial Intelligence (AI) is undermining deep learning and critical thinking.
According to him, the younger generations were turning away from traditional reading habits in favour of quick information searches online.
Speaking last Thursday in Accra at the book launch authored by Seth Nketiah, titled “Informed Corporate Financial Management Strategic & Decisions for Sustainable Growth,” Mr Osafo-Maafo noted that the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) was a destruction but not a tool for the development of success for the youths.
“Today, people rely heavily on Google and digital platforms to get information instantly. The discipline of sitting down to read a book, to follow a narrative or argument from beginning to end, is being lost,” he said.
Mr Maafo cautioned that while access to information had become easier, it may not be better.
“Books represent thoughts arranged systematically, conclusions drawn after careful consideration. That process is being devalued.”
“Technology will come and go, but books will remain foundational to human progress,” he added.
The author of the book, Mr Nketia, emphasised that the book was meant to bridge the gap between theoretical finance and real-world application, offering practical tools to guide businesses, institutions, and individuals toward long-term financial resilience.
“Finance is not just about numbers, it is about the choices we make, the risks we take, and the systems we put in place to ensure sustainability,” Nketia noted.
“This book is meant to serve as both a resource and a roadmap for informed decision-making in corporate finance,” he added.
According to Mr Nketia poor financial planning remained a major reason behind the collapse of companies and even families, and argued that a deeper understanding of financial concepts such as capital formation, interest rates, and working capital was essential for success.
“This book is more than a personal project. It’s a call to action for professionals, academics, and future leaders to prioritise structured financial education and informed strategy,” Nketia outlined.
BY RAYMOND APPIAH-
AMPONSAH
