The President of Ghana, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, commended the significant influence of the National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme (NEIP) on the entrepreneurial landscape of the country.
He made these remarks during the 3rd Applied Research Conference of Technical Universities in Ghana (ARCTUG 2024) in Sunyani.
Established in 2017, NEIP has played a pivotal role in promoting entrepreneurship and innovation in Ghana by offering vital assistance to startups through financing, training, and guidance.
President Akufo-Addo highlighted NEIP’s achievements, enabling 15,000 startups to expand their activities and generating 103,871 employment opportunities by the conclusion of 2023, thus aiding economic diversification and empowering the youth.
He recognized the foundational contributions of the late John Kumah, the inaugural CEO of NEIP, and the former Minister for Business Development, Mohammed Awal Ibrahim, in establishing the initiative.
The President stressed NEIP’s significance in curbing unemployment and nurturing a spirit of self-sufficiency and ingenuity by equipping young entrepreneurs with essential skills and resources.
He also emphasized the proliferation of innovative enterprises across diverse sectors, propelling sustainable economic progress and enhancing citizens’ welfare.
President Akufo-Addo reiterated the government’s dedication to fostering entrepreneurship and innovation beyond NEIP, including substantial investments in education and research.
He highlighted the administration’s emphasis on STEM education and endeavors aimed at cultivating top-tier STEM institutions and programs.
Additionally, the President urged all stakeholders to sustain their backing for initiatives like NEIP and collaborate to propel Ghana’s development through innovation and entrepreneurship, striving for a brighter future characterized by innovation, inclusivity, and prosperity.