By Kofi Anokye Owusu-Darko(Dr)
Aspire 24 is a bold and forward-thinking initiative introduced by the NDC, designed to transform Ghana’s economy by focusing on several key thematic areas: Mindset and Work Ethic Transformation, Digital Intelligence Skills Development, Multilingual Competence Development, Vocational and Technical Skills for Key Sectors, Workforce Skills Upscaling, and Business Support Services.
These strategic pillars aim to equip the workforce with the skills and mindset necessary to compete and thrive in a fast-changing global economy.
One critical aspect of Aspire 24 is the creation of digital jobs, which is a central focus of its Digital Intelligence Skills Development and Workforce Upscaling themes. The initiative aims to foster the development of digital jobs that will drive productivity and innovation across Ghana’s key sectors.
By equipping the workforce—particularly the youth—with the digital skills needed for success in a rapidly evolving, technology-driven world, Aspire 24 ensures that Ghana’s workers are prepared to compete in both local and global markets.
A cornerstone of this effort is the One Million Coders Programme, which will train one million young Ghanaians in coding, AI development, blockchain, and other digital intelligence soft skills.
- AI (Artificial Intelligence) enables machines to perform tasks that typically require human intelligence, such as learning from data, making decisions, and solving problems.
- Blockchain is a secure digital ledger that records transactions in a way that ensures transparency and prevents unauthorized changes.
- IoT (Internet of Things) refers to a system where physical devices—like sensors or machines—are connected to the internet, allowing them to collect and exchange real-time data.
This programme is expected to enable the creation of 300,000 skilled jobs and a pool of digital nomads —professionals who use technology to work remotely— empowering the youth to contribute to technological innovation across key sectors.
Aspire 24 is designed not only to boost employment but also to position Ghana as a competitive player in the global digital economy.
Aspire 24 also recognizes the challenges posed by such a transformation, particularly in terms of changing work processes and potential job displacements. The digital transformation process is to be calibrated carefully to ensure net employment gains, positioning Ghana’s workforce for long-term success.
While shifts in workflows and processes may lead to changes in certain roles, Aspire 24’s upskilling programme is designed to proactively equip workers with the digital intelligence and skills they need to adapt and thrive in this evolving landscape.
By focusing on preparing both formal and informal sector workers for these emerging opportunities, Aspire 24 will be laying the foundation for a future-ready workforce that can drive innovation and productivity in the digital economy.
This article will explore the digital job creation aspect of Aspire 24. For each priority sector, I will highlight the objectives of the policy, the role of technology in transforming the sector, and the digital job opportunities that will emerge.
Through this exploration, we will see how Aspire 24 plans to fuel Ghana’s tech-driven productivity and lay the foundation for sustained economic growth.
AGRI-BUSINESS
Objective: Aspire 24 seeks to modernise Ghana’s agri-business sector by integrating technology across the entire agricultural value chain—from production to processing, marketing, and distribution.
The goal is to increase productivity, reduce post-harvest losses, and build a competitive agri-business industry that can meet domestic consumption needs and support exports.
Role of Technology:
- Efficiency: Precision farming technologies, such as IoT sensors and AI, will optimize crop production. Blockchain systems will improve traceability, ensuring that agricultural products are processed and distributed efficiently. Digital platforms will connect farmers directly to markets, helping them get their produce to consumers and processors faster.
- Modernization: Automation will streamline post-harvest handling, including sorting, packaging, and transportation, which will make the entire value chain more efficient. Blockchain technology will verify product quality and origin, enhancing trust in Ghanaian agricultural products, both domestically and internationally.
Digital Job Opportunities:
- IoT Specialists: Implement IoT solutions to monitor production, soil health, and environmental conditions in farming.
- AI Developers: Create AI-driven systems to manage post-harvest processes, optimize storage conditions, and predict market demand for agricultural products.
- Blockchain Developers: Build blockchain systems that ensure transparency and traceability in the agricultural supply chain.
- E-commerce Platform Managers: Manage digital platforms that connect farmers to local and international markets, streamlining sales and logistics..
24-Hour Economy Impact:
Automation in processing, packaging, and distribution will support continuous agri-business operations. With the integration of precision farming and blockchain-enabled traceability, Aspire 24 will create new digital roles, such as IoT specialists and blockchain experts, who will work in shifts and help improve resource management, traceability, and productivity in the agricultural sector.
IoT systems will monitor storage conditions around the clock, and digital platforms will provide 24/7 market access. This will maximize output, reduce waste, and position agri-business as a vital contributor to Ghana’s 24-hour economy.
MANUFACTURING
Objective: Aspire 24 seeks to revolutionize Ghana’s manufacturing sector by integrating automation, robotics, and AI. These technologies will increase production efficiency, reduce costs, and improve product quality, enabling continuous production and enhancing the sector’s global competitiveness.
Role of Technology:
- Efficiency: Robotics and AI will automate repetitive tasks, speeding up production and improving accuracy. AI-powered digital twins—virtual models of physical manufacturing systems—will enable real-time monitoring and predictive maintenance, reducing downtime and boosting operational efficiency.
- Modernization: Automation will greatly enhance precision in industries like food processing, pharmaceuticals, and electronics. Blockchain technology will improve transparency and traceability in supply chains, ensuring product quality and reliability from production to delivery.
Digital Job Opportunities:
- Robotics Engineers: Design, build, and maintain robots that automate production processes.
- Automation Technicians: Install and manage automated systems that streamline production and reduce the need for manual intervention.
- AI Specialists: Develop AI algorithms for predictive maintenance, quality control, and process optimization.
- Digital Twin Experts: Create and manage virtual replicas of manufacturing systems to monitor performance and improve productivity.
- Blockchain Developers: Implement blockchain solutions to track products throughout the supply chain, ensuring transparency and quality control.
24-Hour Economy Impact: Automation and AI-powered digital twins will enable manufacturing plants to run continuously, minimizing downtime and reducing reliance on human oversight.
Aspire 24’s focus on robotics and IoT systems will create new digital roles for robotics engineers, AI specialists, and IoT technicians working in shifts, who will help optimize production processes and improve efficiency.
This will support round-the-clock production, significantly increasing output and ensuring that Ghana remains competitive in the global manufacturing market.
FINTECH
Objective: Aspire 24 aims to enhance financial inclusion and modernise financial services by leveraging digital platforms, mobile banking, blockchain, and AI-driven solutions. The goal is to make financial services accessible to all Ghanaians, especially in rural areas, while ensuring security and transparency in financial transactions.
Role of Technology:
- Efficiency: Enhanced Mobile banking platforms will allow seamless 24/7 financial transactions, enabling customers to access improved services anytime, anywhere. Blockchain technology will ensure an enhanced secure and transparent financial operations, while AI will help detect fraud and improve customer service by automating responses and support.
- Modernization: Aspire 24 will modernise financial operations by integrating blockchain for secure transactions and AI for customer analytics and risk management. These technologies will make financial services more reliable, secure, and accessible for all.
Digital Job Opportunities:
- Blockchain Developers: Build and maintain blockchain systems that provide decentralized and transparent financial transactions.
- AI Developers: Create AI-driven solutions for fraud detection, customer service automation, and risk assessment.
- Mobile App Developers: Develop mobile banking applications that extend financial services to underserved communities.
- Cybersecurity Experts: Protect financial platforms from cyber threats and ensure compliance with security regulations.
24-Hour Economy Impact: With mobile banking and blockchain platforms enabling 24/7 financial transactions, and AI-driven systems providing real-time fraud detection, Aspire 24 will create a resilient and inclusive financial ecosystem.
The expansion of digital financial services will open up roles for AI specialists and platform managers, who will be essential in maintaining secure, continuous access to financial services while working in shifts.
This will ensure that Ghana remains a leader in financial inclusion, supporting the growth of a robust 24-hour economy.
HEALTHCARE
Objective: Aspire 24 aims to improve healthcare delivery by introducing digital health solutions, such as telemedicine and AI-powered diagnostics, to increase access to healthcare and enhance diagnostic accuracy across the country.
Role of Technology:
- Efficiency: Telemedicine platforms will allow patients to consult healthcare providers remotely, expanding access to medical services, particularly in rural areas. AI systems will improve the speed and accuracy of diagnoses, enabling doctors to make quicker, more informed decisions.
- Modernization: Blockchain will securely store and manage digital health records, improving data privacy and making it easier for healthcare providers to access and share patient information. This will streamline healthcare delivery and ensure continuity of care.
Digital Job Opportunities:
- AI Developers: Develop AI-driven diagnostic tools to assist healthcare providers in analyzing patient data and improving medical outcomes.
- Telemedicine Platform Managers: Manage platforms that facilitate remote consultations, ensuring smooth and efficient service delivery.
- Blockchain Developers: Implement secure systems for storing and sharing electronic health records, enhancing privacy and security.
- Health Data Analysts: Analyse digital health records and patient data to identify trends that can improve healthcare delivery.
24-Hour Economy Impact: Telemedicine and AI-powered diagnostics will ensure healthcare services are available anytime, making care more accessible and responsive.
This shift will create opportunities for telemedicine specialists, AI specialist, and health data analysts, who working in shifts, will play a critical role in delivering real-time, round-the-clock healthcare. With blockchain-based records improving efficiency, healthcare providers can offer consistent, around-the-clock care, contributing to a 24-hour healthcare system that supports Ghana’s broader digital transformation.
METALLURGY AND FABRICATION
Objective: Aspire 24 aims to modernise Ghana’s metallurgy and fabrication sector by incorporating advanced technologies that improve precision, safety, and efficiency. The goal is to streamline production processes while preserving skilled labour, creating a globally competitive sector.
Role of Technology:
- Efficiency: Automation and AI will improve tasks such as cutting, welding, and moulding, making them more precise and faster. IoT sensors will monitor equipment performance and predict when maintenance is needed, preventing disruptions and keeping operations running smoothly.
- Modernization: Predictive maintenance using AI will reduce the need for manual repairs, ensuring workflows are smoother and safer. Blockchain technology will increase transparency in sourcing materials, helping Ghana’s metallurgy sector gain trust in the global market.
Digital Job Opportunities:
- Robotics Engineers: Design and maintain automated systems for precision tasks like welding and cutting.
- AI Developers: Create AI systems that predict when machines need maintenance and ensure quality control in production.
- IoT Technicians: Implement IoT devices that monitor equipment performance and safety in real time.
- Blockchain Developers: Build systems that track and verify the sourcing of raw materials, ensuring transparency in the supply chain.
24-Hour Economy Impact:
Automation and AI-powered systems will allow Ghana’s metallurgy and fabrication sector to operate continuously, with minimal downtime. AI-driven predictive maintenance will help prevent unexpected equipment failures, while IoT sensors will ensure that safety standards are met around the clock. This will result in higher output, fewer disruptions, and safer, more efficient operations, making the sector a key player in Ghana’s 24-hour economy.
TEXTILES
Objective: Aspire 24 aims to revitalize Ghana’s textiles industry by integrating automation and digital design technologies to boost productivity, lower costs, and promote local production. The goal is to modernise textile production while protecting jobs for skilled workers.
Role of Technology:
- Efficiency: Automated looms and sewing machines will speed up production and improve accuracy, while reducing material waste. AI systems will handle quality control, ensuring that fabrics meet high production standards with less human error.
- Modernization: Blockchain will bring transparency to the supply chain, allowing consumers to trace the origin of materials. This will promote ethical sourcing and fair trade practices. Digital platforms will play a vital role in marketing and selling Ghanaian textile products to a global audience.
Digital Job Opportunities:
- Textile Technologists: Operate and maintain automated textile production machines, ensuring consistent product quality.
- Digital Designers: Use advanced software to create digital patterns and designs for textile products.
- Blockchain Developers: Build systems that track the sourcing and movement of raw materials in the textile supply chain.
- E-commerce Developers: Develop and manage online platforms for selling textile products locally and internationally.
24-Hour Economy Impact:
Automation and AI will enable continuous textile production, ensuring that delays are minimized and product quality stays consistent. This will allow manufacturers to meet growing global demand, while maintaining jobs for skilled workers. The textiles sector will play a significant role in Ghana’s 24-hour economy by operating efficiently and around the clock.
SMALL-SCALE MINING
Objective: Aspire 24 aims to modernise small-scale mining in Ghana by introducing technology to improve safety, sustainability, and efficiency. The goal is to make mining operations more environmentally friendly, increase output, and reduce the sector’s negative impact.
Role of Technology:
- Efficiency: modernize will optimize extraction processes by providing real-time monitoring of mining operations. This will reduce waste and improve resource management. Environmental monitoring systems will track the impact of mining activities on surrounding ecosystems, ensuring that operations stay sustainable.
- Modernization: Geographic Information Systems (GIS) will improve resource mapping, making it easier to locate mineral deposits accurately. Blockchain will ensure that minerals are sourced ethically, providing transparency in the supply chain and reinforcing Ghana’s commitment to sustainable mining.
Digital Job Opportunities:
- GIS Specialists: Use geographic data and mapping technologies to locate mineral deposits and plan mining operations.
- Environmental Engineers: Implement systems that monitor the environmental impact of mining, ensuring sustainability.
- IoT Technicians: Set up and maintain IoT systems that monitor mining equipment and track environmental effects.
- Blockchain Developers: Build blockchain solutions to track the ethical sourcing and movement of minerals in the supply chain.
24-Hour Economy Impact:
AI and IoT systems will enable small-scale mining operations to run continuously, improving resource extraction while maintaining strict environmental standards. By embracing advanced technologies and sustainable practices, small-scale mining can contribute to a 24-hour economy that balances productivity with environmental stewardship.
TOURISM
Objective: Aspire 24 aims to boost Ghana’s tourism industry by using digital platforms and immersive technologies to attract more local and international visitors. The goal is to make tourism more accessible and engaging through technology, increasing revenue for the sector.
Role of Technology:
- Efficiency: Smart tourism platforms will streamline the booking process, offering real-time information on accommodations, attractions, and services. AI-powered chatbots will enhance customer service by providing 24/7 support, making it easier for visitors to explore Ghana.
- Modernization: Virtual Reality (VR) will allow potential tourists to experience Ghanaian destinations virtually before they travel, offering an immersive preview that can inspire them to visit. Digital marketing will expand Ghana’s global reach by showcasing the country’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty through online platforms.
Digital Job Opportunities:
- VR Content Creators: Develop virtual experiences that showcase Ghana’s tourist attractions, allowing potential visitors to explore destinations online.
- Digital Marketers: Use social media and other digital platforms to promote Ghana’s tourism industry to a global audience.
- Platform Developers: Build and maintain smart tourism platforms that provide booking services, recommendations, and real-time travel information.
- AI Specialists: Develop AI-driven customer support tools, like chatbots, to improve the visitor experience.
24-Hour Economy Impact:
Digital platforms and AI systems will provide tourists with a seamless 24/7 access to travel services, from booking accommodations to receiving customer support. This round-the-clock accessibility will enhance Ghana’s tourism industry, making it more competitive and efficient, while driving continuous economic growth in this vital sector.
EDUCATION
Objective: Aspire 24 aims to revolutionize education in Ghana by integrating digital platforms and e-learning technologies. The goal is to make education more accessible, flexible, and personalized for students across the country.
Role of Technology:
- Efficiency: E-learning platforms will provide students with access to educational materials anytime, anywhere, allowing them to learn at their own pace. AI-driven tools will tailor learning experiences to each student’s needs, helping improve engagement and academic outcomes.
- Modernization: Virtual Reality (VR) will create immersive learning experiences, enabling students to explore virtual labs, historical sites, and complex scientific concepts in ways that make learning more interactive. Blockchain technology will securely store academic credentials, ensuring data privacy and preventing fraud.
Digital Job Opportunities:
- E-learning Content Developers: Create digital courses and educational materials for online learning platforms, enriching students’ learning experiences.
- AI Education Specialists: Develop AI-driven tools that personalize learning experiences based on individual student performance and needs.
- VR Developers for Education: Design and build immersive VR experiences that enhance learning in subjects like science, history, and engineering.
- Blockchain Developers: Implement blockchain solutions to store and verify academic credentials securely, ensuring transparent access to educational records.
24-Hour Economy Impact: Enhanced E-learning platforms will allow students to seamless access educational resources at any time, making learning more flexible and scalable. By embracing these digital technologies, Aspire 24 will help create a highly skilled workforce that is prepared for the demands of the digital economy, contributing to Ghana’s 24-hour economy and long-term economic growth.
CONCLUSION
Aspire 24 represents a bold and transformative vision for Ghana’s future, placing digital jobs and technology at the forefront of sectoral modernization and productivity growth.
By equipping the workforce with essential skills in coding, AI, blockchain, and automation through initiatives like the One Million Coders Programme, Aspire 24 aims to create 300,000 skilled jobs and empower the youth to lead Ghana’s technological advancement.
Through the integration of advanced technologies such as AI, IoT, and blockchain, Aspire 24 seeks to maximize productivity, reduce costs, and maintain Ghana’s competitiveness in the global economy.
Aspire 24 also recognizes the challenges posed by digital transformation, particularly in terms of changing workflows and potential job displacements.
To address this, the initiative will be carefully calibrated to ensure net employment gains and will be supported by upskilling programmes that equip workers with the digital intelligence necessary to succeed in the evolving economy.
While Aspire 24’s training programmes aim to create skilled employment opportunities, the initiative recognizes that training alone does not immediately translate into jobs. Instead, the emphasis is on fostering a digitally intelligent workforce that can adapt and thrive in today’s rapidly evolving economy.
By focusing on skills adaptability, Aspire 24 ensures that Ghanaians are ready to seize opportunities as they emerge across sectors, contributing to sustained national productivity and growth. Moreover, this growing talent pool of digitally skilled individuals will position Ghana as an attractive destination for global companies seeking to invest in countries with the capacity to support their global supply and value chains, further driving economic growth.
If implemented effectively, Aspire 24 holds the potential to significantly enhance Ghana’s tech-driven productivity, positioning the country for long-term economic growth and global competitiveness in the digital age.
The author is a Certified Management Consultant. He holds an EMBA (IT Management) and an LLM (IT & Telecommunication). (Blogs : Kofianokye.blogspot.com; Kofidarko2.blogspot.com). (contact: [email protected])
