Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Abla Dzifa Gomashie, has said the Government is reviewing outdated laws and policies to strengthen Ghana’s cultural and creative economy.

She said the review included the National Cultural Policy and was aimed at unlocking the full potential of the creative sector.

Madam Gomashie made the remarks when she delivered the keynote address at the third sitting of the second session of the 25th Congregation Ceremony of the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA) in Accra.

The ceremony, held under the theme “From heritage to creative futures: Reimagining development through creative education and enterprise,” celebrated academic achievement and reflected on the role of culture, creativity and innovation in national development.

Madam Gomashie said aligning policy and legal frameworks with global trends, while reflecting Ghana’s local realities, was critical to building a vibrant, inclusive and sustainable creative industry.

She said the Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts sector contributed about US$4.8 billion to Ghana’s Gross Domestic Product in 2024 and attracted approximately 1.2 million visitors, describing tourism as a vital link between Ghana’s cultural heritage and global experiences.

The Minister said Ghana’s authenticity, traditions and shared African identity continued to attract visitors worldwide and stressed the need for greater appreciation of indigenous knowledge and cultural practices, particularly among the youth, as a basis for economic growth and creative enterprise.

She urged graduates and faculty to partner Government through innovation, research and enterprise development to help shape the future of the sector.

Prof. Yaw Agyeman Badu, Chairman of GIMPA’s Governing Council, congratulated the graduating class for their perseverance and discipline, describing graduation as a moment of continuity and renewal.

He reaffirmed GIMPA’s commitment to academic excellence, innovation and national relevance, and highlighted the Institute’s role in producing leaders for the public and private sectors.

Prof. Samuel Kwaku Bonsu, Rector of GIMPA, outlined key achievements over the past year, including strengthened collaboration with Government, expanded continental partnerships and an increased focus on graduate education.

He announced the approval of a new School of Creative Arts Leadership and Enterprise (G-SCALE), expected to commence operations in September 2026, to address skills gaps and leadership needs in the creative arts sector.

Prof. Bonsu said the Institute would also advance digital transformation, adopt artificial intelligence and promote sustainable growth as it prepared to mark its 65th anniversary.

As part of the ceremony, Madam Gomashie and the Chairman of the Governing Council presented awards to the overall best graduating student.

The Minister was also presented with a portrait award in recognition of her contributions to the tourism, culture and creative arts sector and her support for GIMPA’s 25th Congregation.