The Minister for Education, Honourable Haruna Iddrisu received a delegation from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) as part of efforts to strengthen collaboration on youth innovation in Ghana.
The UNDP Resident Representative, Mr Niloy Banerjee briefed the minister on the progress of the Young Africa Innovates (YAI) programme, which promotes inclusive innovation among young people, especially women, persons with disabilities, and those in rural areas. The delegation commended the Ministry for its role in the recruitment of some 1,182 youth innovators which was twice its initial target.
So far, over 10,000 young people have been recruited nationwide under the YAI initiative, with many receiving trainings in agriculture, energy, environment, and technology. The programme has created 9,000 jobs, 60% of which have gone to women.
Later in the day, Hon. Iddrisu received a German delegation led by the deputy Ambassador, Ms Sevine Jansen to explore the possibility of strengthening German language education in Ghana. The team highlighted recent upgrades, including the elevation of German to a major programme at the University of Education, Winneba, and the introduction of German in selected TVET institutions like Tamale.
Discussions also covered teacher exchanges, digital learning solutions from German firm Ambylon. The team however, raised concerns about the halted DAAD scholarship programme due to outstanding obligations.
Hon. Iddrisu expressed Ghana’s readiness to address the issues and deepen cooperation for the mutual benefit of both countries.
