Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu has emphasized that education forms the foundation of President John Mahama’s 24-Hour Economy policy.
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Speaking on JoyNews’ PM Express on Tuesday, July 1, the Tamale South MP argued that no part of the ambitious initiative can succeed without an educated population.
“If you want to fight galamsey or run 24-hour enterprises, you need a trained mind. That’s an educated mind,” he said. “From pricing goods to birth control, education makes the difference.”
His remarks followed the official launch of the 24-Hour Economy programme by former President Mahama, which aims to boost productivity, job creation, and national development.
Describing the launch as a turning point, Iddrisu said the policy is transitioning “from slogan to action.” He noted that Mahama has long envisioned this plan and has consistently highlighted Ghana’s overreliance on imports as a key concern.
“We spend billions on rice, grains, frozen poultry, and sugar. That must change,” he said.
He also linked the 24-Hour Economy to the Accelerated Export Development Initiative, pointing out that both policies aim to reduce dependency and promote local production.
“The President’s conviction is clear: Ghana must be food-sufficient and economically self-reliant.”
Iddrisu praised Mahama’s choice of Goosie Tanoh as the lead coordinator for the programme and highlighted the most important takeaway:
“What stood out is Mahama’s pledge to make the initiative private sector-led. Government will only serve as a facilitator, not the driver.”
