The Deputy Majority Leader in Parliament, Patricia Appiagyei, has emphasised the need to integrate entrepreneurship education into school curriculum that could significantly combat the alarming unemployment crisis that affects approximately 9.2 million individuals in the country.
The Member of Parliament (MP) for Asokwa Constituency in the Ashanti Region, highlighted the paradox of rising educational attainment among youth coupled with inadequate job prospects.
Speaking in an interview with Oyerepa TV dubbed; “Agenda,” Madam Appiagyei, pointed out that many graduates are struggling to find employment, a situation exacerbated by the demand for skilled labour that the Free Senior High School (FSHS) policy, has yet to fully address.
“This isn’t just an academic issue; it’s a national concern. By equipping students with the knowledge and skills to start their own businesses, we can enable them to become self-reliant and contribute to the economy,” She asserted on the show hosted by Kwesi Parker Wilson.
Madam Appiagyei, added that while there are existing agricultural programmes that offer invaluable skills training, such as container gardening for crops like peppers in areas with limited farmland, these solutions often go unnoticed.
The Deputy Leader, expressed concern that many individuals continue to focus on traditional office jobs, overlooking viable alternative pathways to employment.
“As a society, we must change our mindset and acknowledge the potential of entrepreneurship. Not only can it create jobs, but it can also foster innovation and sustainability, which are crucial for our development.” She added.
With a shift towards entrepreneurship education, Madam Appiagyei believes that Ghana can harness the creativity and ambition of its youth, ultimately mitigating the unemployment crisis and paving the way for a more prosperous future.