By King Amoah
In recent months, the government has touted the creation of over 3.1 million jobs as a significant achievement in tackling unemployment.
While job creation is indeed a vital component of national development, claiming credit for it can be a double-edged sword.
The reality is that job creation is a fundamental duty of any government, rather than a campaign talking point. It is essential that we move beyond rhetoric and hold our leaders accountable for their promises.
In the political arena, claims about job creation can easily become inflated, serving more as a backdrop for political campaigns than reflecting the true state of employment in the country. When government officials assert they have generated millions of jobs, it is crucial for citizens to question the accuracy of these claims.
Simply creating jobs is not enough; ensuring they are sustainable and that workers are compensated fairly is equally vital.
To emphasize this point, we must look at the example of the National Apprenticeship Programme (NABCO). The government has boasted of the scheme’s success in providing job opportunities for youth who had struggled to find employment.
However, it raises serious concerns when a significant number of these workers — nearly 100,000 NABCO trainees — are left unpaid and idling at home. This contradicts the government’s narrative of job creation and calls into question the effectiveness of the programs advertised.
As citizens, it is our right to seek clarification from the government. If the figures surrounding job creation are indeed accurate, we deserve an explanation regarding the plight of the unpaid NABCO youth.
How can the government reconcile its claims of successful job creation with the reality faced by these workers? It is essential for the government to address these issues openly and transparently, as failure to do so may lead to increased skepticism and disillusionment among the populace.
Moreover, the persistence of unpaid workers raises significant concerns about the sustainability of these so-called jobs. Are these positions merely temporary or unofficial? Are they truly providing meaningful employment, or are they creating a facade of success while neglecting the needs of those they purport to serve?
In an age where information is readily accessible, the citizens of Ghana are equipped to demand accountability from their leaders. We have a responsibility to question the status quo and advocate for the rights of every worker.
In doing so, we ensure that job creation is not just a buzzword but a commitment fulfilled by the government.
In conclusion, if the government is indeed committed to creating a sustainable employment environment, it must prioritize transparency in its job creation initiatives. Promises made to the youth of this country should be honored, and questions raised by concerned citizens should be met with clarity and action.
