Independent presidential candidate and human rights activist, Mr. Wilberforce Andrews, has called for a sweeping transformation across key sectors of the economy to unlock Ghana’s full growth and development potential.

He emphasized the urgent need for bold and strategic reforms that will position the country on a path of sustainable progress and self-reliance.

Speaking during at a trade fair held at the West Hills Mall over the weekend, Mr. Andrews highlighted the critical role of education in national development, stressing that the current system must shift from a largely theoretical approach to a more practical, skills-oriented model.

According to him, such a transition is essential to adequately prepare young people for the realities of the job market.

He noted: “Many graduates leave school without employable skills, making it difficult for them to secure jobs or create their own opportunities. Embedding practical learning into the curriculum would empower the youth with relevant competencies for entrepreneurship and wealth creation.”

Mr. Andrews also underscored the importance of agriculture as a cornerstone of the nation’s economy, calling on government and the education ministry to reposition the sector in a way that makes it more appealing to young people.

As part of this effort, he proposed the introduction of practical agriculture as a core component of the school curriculum.

“Exposing students to hands-on agricultural practices at an early stage will not only build interest but also develop skills necessary for modern farming. This integration would help diversify career pathways for students, especially in the agriculture sector,” he added.

He further suggested that agriculture should be made a compulsory subject alongside Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET).

Modernizing the agricultural sector, he added, is equally crucial in attracting youth participation while the use of technology, mechanization, and innovative farming techniques could transform perceptions about agriculture and make it a viable and lucrative career option.

On the economic front, Mr. Andrews called for decisive measures to stabilize the economy through import substitution strategies, stressing the need for Ghana to reduce its reliance on imported goods by strengthening local production capacities.

“Boosting exports while minimizing imports is a proven pathway to economic independence; countries that prioritize local industries and export-driven growth tend to achieve stronger and more resilient economies,” he further noted.