The Founder and Principal of Advans Global University College, Alhaji Ahmed Zaruk, has underscored the need for deliberate investment in education, technical skills, healthcare and digital literacy as critical drivers of Ghana’s long-term economic resilience.

According to him, the country’s development trajectory must be guided by purposeful planning rather than chance, with strategic investments capable of strengthening the national economy and social fabric within a generation.

“Development depends on the partnership between government, the private sector, civil society and the diaspora,” he said.

“Excellence is not just about individual success, but about collective progress.”

Dr. Zaruk was addressing participants at the third edition of the Ghana Development Awards (GDA) held in Accra and organised by The Business Executive Group to recognise individuals and institutions whose work is contributing significantly to Ghana’s socio-economic advancement.

He emphasised that development must be anchored on values of integrity, vision and shared responsibility.

“Events like this remind us that hard work matters, integrity matters and most importantly, people matter,” he noted. “Our story has always been one of vision, courage and responsibility. Development for us has never simply been about economic statistics; it has been about our dignity.”

The 2026 Ghana Development Awards honoured 26 organisations and five individuals whose initiatives are transforming lives and communities across sectors including health, education, finance, environment, vocational development and human rights protection.

Group Chief Executive Officer of The Business Executive Group, Baroness Paulette Kporo, said the awards were intended not only to recognise excellence but also to inspire continued commitment to national development.

“We have not only honoured these distinguished individuals doing remarkable things for Ghana; we have also empowered them with a message to keep striving and working hard because the world is watching,” she said. “Their efforts—together with many others—will propel us toward achieving the Ghanaian dream we all desire.”

Team Lead for the Ghana Development Awards and Manager of National Events at The Business Executive Group, Ernest Lartey, said the platform is designed to foster collaboration among change-makers across sectors.

“This is a celebration of Ghanaians who truly have Ghana at heart,” he stated. “Today we have provided a platform for them to unite their energies, build lasting partnerships and forge collaborations that will serve their shared interests and contribute meaningfully to the development of our nation.”

Participants were encouraged to translate the inspiration from the awards into concrete actions that advance inclusive growth.

“Let the awards remind us that excellence is achievable,” Dr. Zaruk urged. “Let the conversations from this gathering translate into action as we recommit ourselves to building a Ghana that is prosperous, just and globally competitive — a nation future generations will be proud of.”