Mr. James Opoku, the CEO of Lion King Universal Engineering based in Odeneho Kwadaso, Ashanti Region, has called on Ghanaian youth to embrace vocational training and agriculture as practical solutions to the country’s growing unemployment problem. In an interview with the media, he emphasized that acquiring hands-on skills and focusing on hard work are essential to achieving financial independence and long-term career success.
Mr. Opoku, who is a strong advocate for youth empowerment, urged young people to move away from the pursuit of quick wealth and instead invest in developing practical skills that can lead to stable and sustainable careers. He identified sectors such as agriculture, carpentry, plumbing, and engineering as areas with abundant opportunities for young Ghanaians to make meaningful contributions to the nation’s economy.
“I strongly believe that if the youth embrace hard work and vocational training, they can reduce the growing tension of unemployment. By using their hands and learning valuable skills, they can build successful careers and achieve financial independence,” said Mr. Opoku.
In addition, he discussed the important role that parents and guardians play in shaping their children’s educational paths. Mr. Opoku encouraged parents to consider their children’s interests and talents when deciding between traditional academic schooling and vocational training. He emphasized that fields like agriculture, technical work, and engineering offer hands-on learning experiences that can lead to rewarding and prosperous careers.
“Parents should support their children if they wish to pursue a trade or vocational skill. Not every child is suited for academic studies, and there are numerous opportunities in skilled professions that can offer the youth a promising future,” Mr. Opoku advised.
Furthermore, Mr. Opoku called on the government to prioritize farming and skills training as part of its efforts to combat unemployment. He pointed out that Ghana has vast untapped farmlands that could serve as agricultural training centers, where the youth can be empowered with practical skills in farming and agribusiness.
“If the government wants to effectively address unemployment, it must prioritize farming and skills training. There are numerous unused farmlands that could be utilized to train young people in sustainable agricultural practices,” he noted.
Mr. Opoku’s message stresses the importance of fostering self-reliance through practical education and entrepreneurship to equip young Ghanaians with the tools to build successful careers and contribute meaningfully to the country’s development.
By Simon Opoku Afriyie