The National Emerging Leaders Economic Forum (NELEF) 2024 has officially been launched in Accra, with a focus on equipping Ghana’s youth with the necessary skills and knowledge to drive sustainable economic growth in a rapidly changing global landscape.
The forum scheduled to be held at University of Professional Studies, Accra( UPSA) on Monday 23rd September is under the theme “Leading for Sustainable Economic Growth in a Multipolar World: The Role of Emerging Leaders.”
The forum will bring together about 4,000 young leaders, solid professionals, and presidential aspirants to tackle the challenges facing the nation and shape its economic future.
It will provide a platform for emerging leaders to engage in open dialogue with seasoned professionals and presidential aspirants, ensuring that their voices and ideas are heard and considered. Extensive research conducted by VODEC Africa will be presented, offering valuable insights and actionable strategies for economic growth.
In his opening remarks, CEO of VODEC Africa, a non-governmental organisation,( NGO), Daniel Asomani emphasised the critical role of young leaders in reshaping Ghana’s economic future.
He urged the youth to take an active role in leadership, highlighting the marginalisation of many potential leaders due to a lack of resources and opportunities.
He noted that NELEF 2024 aims to foster collaboration among young leaders, professionals, and presidential aspirants to address key issues such as climate change, inequality, and technological disruption.
“The future of our nation rests on the shoulders of emerging leaders who are audacious enough to dream, innovate, and act. This forum is a call to action, a chance to bridge the gap and equip our young leaders with the knowledge, skills, and support they need to thrive.” he added.
World-renowned evangelist and economist, Dr Lawrence Tetteh, cautioned Ghanaians against the need to stop illegal mining (galamsey), which he described as a major threat to Ghana’s environment and health.
He criticised the lack of action from stakeholders and called on the youth to lead the charge in eradicating galamsey, stressing that the problem was not insurmountable if stakeholders take firm action.
He questioned why politicians, security forces, and the media were not doing enough to end the practice. “We must stop galamsey now. It is destroying our water bodies, causing mercury poisoning, and leading to severe health issues”.
Executive Director of the New African Concept Dr. Joshua Oppong Sarfo, highlighted the leadership vacuum that has plagued Ghana since independence, citing the lack of personal leadership as a key contributor to broader national challenges.
He called on young leaders to prioritize personal growth and integrity to avoid replicating the leadership failures of the past.
“If we do not change the narrative, we risk repeating and worsening the leadership issues we currently face,” Dr. Sarfo stated.
Business and policy analyst, Isaac Boamah expressed optimism about the impact of NELEF 2024, noting that the forum would provide a unique opportunity for the youth to engage with experienced professionals and presidential aspirants.
He encouraged attendees to make the most of the event by participating in meaningful discussions and building the capacity to lead in the future.
The media launch, held at the Mikaddo Centre in Labone, was attended by distinguished leaders, professionals, and emerging changemakers who expressed the urgent need for innovative leadership to overcome the nation’s pressing challenges.
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