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Free SHS Policy transforms 5.7 million lives in Ghana- President Akufo-Addo tells World leaders at UN

Ghana’s President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has hailed his government’s flagship Free Senior High School (SHS) policy as a transformative initiative that has benefitted 5.7 million young people in the country, many of whom would have otherwise been denied the opportunity to receive a quality education.
Launched in 2017, the Free SHS policy has been a cornerstone of President Akufo-Addo’s administration, aimed at removing financial barriers to secondary education in Ghana. By covering the full cost of secondary education for all eligible students, the policy has significantly expanded access to schooling for children from all walks of life, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Speaking at the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, President Akufo-Addo outlined the profound impact the policy has had on the nation’s youth and called for a global commitment to ensuring access to education for all children.
“Our flagship Free Senior High School policy has benefitted 5.7 million young people, many of whom would have been denied the opportunity to learn, to dream, and to succeed,” President Akufo-Addo told the global assembly.
He said, “This initiative has transformed the lives of millions, positioning the next generation of Ghanaians to take their place as leaders in the global economy.”
“This is just the beginning,” the President said, expressing his belief that access to education should not be limited by geography or circumstance.
He went further to say, “We need a global commitment to ensure that every child, no matter where they are born, has access to quality education. A world where children are left unprepared for the challenges ahead is not a just world.”
The President’s comments come at a time when many countries, particularly in the developing world, are grappling with educational inequities exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing economic challenges.
In his address, President Akufo-Addo emphasized that education is a key driver of development, economic growth, and social mobility, and that investing in human capital is critical to addressing global poverty and inequality.
In Ghana, the Free SHS policy has been widely praised for its impact on educational outcomes and its role in leveling the playing field for students from all socioeconomic backgrounds.
According to government data, enrollment in secondary schools has increased significantly since the policy’s implementation, with many students who would have dropped out due to financial constraints now able to complete their education.
President Akufo-Addo’s remarks at the UN also highlighted other key initiatives his government has undertaken to ensure that “no one is left behind” in Ghana’s development. In addition to the Free SHS policy, he pointed to the Agenda 111 project, which aims to construct 111 hospitals across the country, particularly in underserved and remote areas.
“This is part of our broader goal of ensuring that no one in Ghana is left without the basic right to health,” he said.
The President also noted the success of the Programme for Planting for Food and Jobs, which has boosted food security and created jobs for millions of Ghanaians. He described the initiative as “a clear demonstration that, with the right policies and investments, we can transform our agricultural sector and ensure that no one goes hungry.”
Looking beyond Ghana’s borders, President Akufo-Addo urged world leaders to prioritize investments in education, healthcare, and economic development, arguing that these are the foundations of a just and equitable society.
“True peace comes from investing in education, healthcare, and economic development,” he said.
As he nears the end of his presidency, President Akufo-Addo’s message to the international community was clear: education is not just a right, but a critical tool for development and empowerment.
He said, “The decisions we make today will shape the future of our world,” he said, urging global leaders to act with courage and compassion to ensure that “no one is left behind.”
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The 7th National Women’s Summit & Expo introduces Industry Spotlight

As the world confronts the complex challenges of sustainable development, food security, and economic growth, one thing is clear: women are essential to the future of agribusiness.
Recognizing this vital contribution, the 7th National Women’s Summit & Expo is set to shine a spotlight on women in agribusiness through its new Industry Spotlight Series with an event dubbed; ‘Women in Agribusiness Industry Mixer’.
This exciting initiative aims to elevate the voices, achievements, and impact of women within the agricultural sector, ultimately strengthening Ghana’s food value chain and boosting economic development. The event is slated for Friday, 21st February at the Kosmos Innovation Center at 5pm prompt.
Agriculture: The Backbone of Ghana’s Economy
Agriculture is the beating heart of Ghana’s economy, supporting millions of livelihoods—particularly those of women.
The sector accounts for around 20% of the country’s GDP and plays an essential role in driving economic growth. Women are at the forefront of food production, processing, distribution, and market innovation, making crucial contributions to the sector’s ongoing development. Yet, despite their significant impact, women in agribusiness still face barriers such as limited access to finance, technology, and markets, which hinder their full participation and potential.
Unlocking the Potential of Women in Agribusiness
The 7th National Women’s Summit & Expo aims to tackle these challenges head-on, providing a platform for engagement, knowledge-sharing, and policy discussions.
On February 21, 2025, the Women in Agribusiness Industry Mixer at the Kosmos Innovation Center will gather women entrepreneurs, agribusiness professionals, investors, and key stakeholders.
The event will facilitate idea exchange, explore potential partnerships, and drive collaborative solutions. Discussions will focus on four critical areas:
The 7th National Women’s Summit & Expo 2025 is more than just an event—it’s a call to action for gender equality. By focusing on agribusiness, an industry crucial to economic transformation, this year’s summit will serve as a launchpad for meaningful engagement, policy dialogue, and business opportunities.
Participants will
• Network with industry leaders, investors, and policymakers
• Explore partnerships and collaborative solutions
• Engage in high-level discussions on key industry challenges
• Showcase innovative products and services
• Champion the future of women in agribusiness
At the National Women’s Summit & Expo on March 7, will focus thought-provoking and in-depth discussion on “Women in Agribusiness” as part of our Industry Spotlight series.
Additionally, they will delve into the following topics;
1. Access to Finance and Investment Opportunities for Women in Agriculture
Access to finance remains one of the biggest hurdles for women in agribusiness, restricting their ability to scale and innovate. The Industry Mixer will offer a unique opportunity for women entrepreneurs to connect with investors, financial institutions, and development partners, exploring innovative financing models and investment opportunities that can fuel growth.
2. Sustainable and Innovative Agricultural Practices
As pressure mounts for the agricultural sector to adopt sustainable and innovative practices, the event will spotlight best practices in sustainable agriculture. Success stories will be shared, and participants will gain insights into innovative approaches that enhance productivity while minimizing environmental impact in production, processing, and distribution.
3. Market Expansion and Value Chain Optimization
Many women in agribusiness struggle with limited access to markets and value chains.
The mixer will focus on strategies to overcome these barriers, facilitating discussions on how women-led ventures can tap into local, regional, and even global markets, thereby unlocking growth and expanding their reach.
4. Policy Advocacy for Gender-Inclusive Agribusiness Growth
To create an environment where women in agribusiness can truly thrive, policy reform is key.
The event will bring together policymakers, industry leaders, and civil society organizations to discuss and advocate for policy initiatives that foster gender-inclusive growth within the agribusiness sector.
The Industry Spotlight Series – Women in Agribusiness is a Charterhouse production and brought to you by Geisha in partnership with Kosmo Innovations Center.
Admission is absolutely free!
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Gyakye Quayson calls for unity and reform in Black History Month address

James Gyakye Quayson, Member of Parliament for Assin North, delivered a compelling speech in Parliament to mark Black History Month, emphasizing unity, self-sufficiency, and inclusive governance.
He paid tribute to Black leaders such as Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, Nelson Mandela, Martin Luther King Jr., and Barack Obama, highlighting their contributions to justice and equality.
He also addressed Africa’s paradox of wealth and underdevelopment, citing historical exploitation and economic dependency as major obstacles.
“Black History Month is a call to action. It reminds us of the need for unity among Black people worldwide. By learning from the past and building solidarity, we can create a future of dignity and empowerment,” he stated.
Ghana as the Gateway to Africa
Mr.Quayson reaffirmed Ghana’s role as the Gateway to Africa, pointing to the Year of Return and Beyond the Return initiatives, which have strengthened ties with the global African diaspora.
These programmes have brought investments in real estate, hospitality, and tourism, boosting economic growth and cultural connections.
Call for Reform: Dual Citizenship and Governance
A key focus of his address was the need to amend Ghana’s dual citizenship laws, which restrict Ghanaians with dual nationality from holding political office. He urged Parliament to expedite the Dual Citizenship Amendment Bill to allow skilled and committed diaspora Ghanaians to contribute to leadership and development.
“The fight against dual citizenship restrictions is not a personal battle but a national conversation. Our Constitution must evolve to reflect the global realities of our people,” he asserted.
The Black Star Experience: A Cultural and Economic Vision
Mr.Quayson also highlighted the Black Star Experience, an NDC initiative aimed at making Ghana a global hub for arts, culture, and tourism. With year-round celebrations in literature, fashion, film, and music, the initiative is expected to attract investment, create jobs, and boost local businesses.
“This initiative will enhance tourism revenues, provide skills transfer, and cement Ghana’s position as a leader in creative and economic innovation,” he noted.
Recognizing and Empowering New Citizens
Mr.Quayson advocated for policies that integrate African Americans and other nationals who have settled in Ghana, allowing them to contribute to governance and leadership.
“Leadership is not confined to nationality by birth but defined by the ability to serve, innovate, and uplift communities,” he emphasized.
A Call for Unity and Progress
Concluding his speech, he urged for a collective effort to create an inclusive and progressive Ghana.
“The journey ahead is long, but together, we can redefine what it means to be Ghanaian, ensure equal opportunities, and build a future our children will be proud of,” he affirmed.
Mr.Quayson’s remarks has reignited discussions on diaspora engagement, constitutional reforms, and Ghana’s cultural and economic leadership. His message of resilience and unity serves as a guiding beacon for the nation’s future.