Detailed Explanation of the Proposed Youth Policy by the National Democratic Congress

In recent times, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has proposed a comprehensive set of youth policies aimed at addressing the various challenges faced by the youth in Ghana. These policies, championed by the National Youth Organizer, Lawyer George Opare Adoo (Pablo), are designed to create job opportunities, support youth entrepreneurship, and promote educational advancements. This article explores each policy in detail, explaining its potential impact and how it could contribute to Ghana’s economic stability and youth empowerment.

1.Youth Development Ministry
Proposal: Establish a separate Ministry for Youth Development.

Explanation:
The creation of a dedicated Youth Development Ministry would centralize and streamline efforts to address youth-related issues. This ministry would focus on implementing programs and policies specifically tailored to the needs of the youth, such as employment, education, and welfare. By having a specialized ministry, resources can be allocated more effectively, and targeted initiatives can be developed to address youth unemployment, skill gaps, and social challenges.

Impact:
-Focused Attention: Prioritizes youth issues within the government framework.

-Effective Coordination: Facilitates better coordination of youth programs and resources.

-Increased Funding: Potential for increased budget allocation towards youth development initiatives.

2.One Million Coders Programme (OMCP)
Proposal: Provide free coding training to one million youth through public-private partnerships.

Explanation:
The OMCP aims to equip one million young people with coding skills, including programming, web development, and app development. This initiative will be implemented through partnerships between the government and private sector, leveraging resources and expertise from both sides.

Impact:
-Skill Development: Enhances employability by providing in-demand tech skills.

-Innovation: Encourages innovation and tech entrepreneurship.

-Job Creation: Creates job opportunities in the tech sector and related industries.

3.Youth Enterprises Tax Waiver Policy
Proposal: Implement tax waivers for start-up enterprises owned by the youth.

Explanation:
This policy proposes tax incentives for young entrepreneurs starting their own businesses. The tax waiver would reduce the financial burden on new enterprises, making it easier for youth to launch and sustain their businesses.

Impact:
-Encourages Entrepreneurship: Reduces initial financial barriers, promoting business start-ups.

-Economic Growth: Stimulates the growth of small businesses, contributing to the economy.

-Job Creation: Creates employment opportunities through new ventures.

4.Re-Introduce SLTF Plus
Proposal: Reintroduce and enhance the Student Loan Trust Fund (SLTF) to address financial challenges for tertiary students.

Explanation:
The SLTF Plus would provide financial support to students facing difficulties in paying for their tertiary education. It allows students to enroll in institutions while waiting for their loans to be processed and transferred.

Impact:
-Access to Education: Increases access to higher education for financially disadvantaged students.

-Reduced Dropout Rates: Minimizes the financial barriers that lead to student dropouts.

-Academic Success: Supports academic progress by ensuring continuous enrollment.

5.Artisans Training and Start-Up Kits
Proposal: Provide training and start-up kits for artisans in each district.

Explanation:
Extending training programs and providing start-up kits for artisans will follow the LESDEP (Local Enterprise and Skills Development Programme) model. This policy focuses on equipping artisans with necessary skills and resources to start and sustain their businesses.

Impact:
-Skill Enhancement: Improves the technical skills of artisans.

-Economic Opportunities: Boosts local economies by supporting small-scale enterprises.

-Employment: Generates jobs within local communities through artisan businesses.

6.Adwumawura Initiative
Proposal: Create, track, and monitor 10,000 youth-established businesses annually through the National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Authority.

Explanation:
The Adwumawura initiative aims to support the establishment and growth of 10,000 businesses annually by providing resources, monitoring progress, and ensuring business success.

Impact:
-Business Growth: Supports the growth of new businesses.

-Monitoring and Support: Provides ongoing support and oversight.

-Economic Impact: Contributes to overall economic development through new enterprises.

7.Scrap Betting and E-levy Tax
Proposal: Eliminate the betting tax and E-levy tax.

Explanation:
The policy suggests removing these taxes to alleviate the financial burden on the youth. Betting taxes affect those engaged in betting activities, while the E-levy impacts digital transactions.

Impact:
-Financial Relief: Reduces the cost burden on young people.

-Encourages Investment: Promotes financial transactions and investments without extra costs.

-Increased Disposable Income: Enhances financial freedom for the youth.

8.Easy Access to Affordable Campus Accommodation
Proposal: Collaborate with the private sector to build more affordable student hostels.

Explanation:
This policy focuses on addressing the shortage of affordable campus accommodation by partnering with private developers to construct more hostels on university campuses.

Impact:
-Improved Living Conditions: Enhances living conditions for students.

-Reduced Accommodation Costs: Lowers the cost burden of student housing.

-Increased Enrollment: Encourages more students to enroll in tertiary education.

9.Free University for Disabled Students
Proposal: Provide free university education for students with disabilities.

Explanation:
Offering free education to disabled students ensures equal access to higher education and supports their academic and professional development.

Impact:
-Equal Opportunity: Provides equitable access to education.

-Support for Disabled Students: Addresses financial barriers specific to disabled individuals.

-Enhanced Inclusion: Promotes inclusivity within higher education institutions.

10.Youth in Mining
Proposal: Facilitate easy access to mining licenses for young entrepreneurs.

Explanation:
This policy aims to simplify the process for young people to obtain mining licenses, encouraging responsible mining practices and creating job opportunities.

Impact:
-Increased Participation: Encourages youth involvement in the mining sector.

-Economic Development: Contributes to economic growth through mining activities.

-Job Creation: Generates employment opportunities in the mining industry.

11. Affordable Rent & Data
Proposal: Advocate for the Rent Control Bill to regulate rent advances and ensure affordable data access.

Explanation:
The policy includes efforts to control high rent advances through legislative changes and to ensure that affordable data plans are available.

Impact:
-Reduced Living Costs: Alleviates the financial burden of high rent and data costs.

-Improved Access: Enhances access to communication and information technology.

-Financial Stability: Contributes to overall financial stability for young people.

12.Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Certification / Step-Up Certification

Proposal: Implement an RPL program to assess and certify artisans based on industry standards.

Explanation:
The RPL program would recognize and certify artisans’ skills based on practical experience and industry standards, helping them gain formal recognition for their expertise.

Impact:
-Validation of Skills: Provides formal certification for practical skills.

-Enhanced Employment Opportunities: Improves employability and career advancement.

-Skill Recognition: Acknowledges the value of hands-on experience in the workforce.

Conclusion
The proposed youth policies by the National Democratic Congress, as outlined by Lawyer George Opare Adoo (Pablo), offer a comprehensive approach to addressing the challenges faced by Ghanaian youth. These policies aim to enhance youth employment, support entrepreneurship, and improve educational access. If implemented effectively, they have the potential to foster economic growth, increase job opportunities, and promote a more inclusive and prosperous society for the youth of Ghana. As former President John Dramani Mahama is a potential candidate for the upcoming election, these policies could play a crucial role in shaping the future direction of youth development in Ghana.