Education is the foundation of Mahama’s 24-Hour Economy – Haruna Iddrisu

Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu has emphasized that the successful implementation of the 24-Hour Economy policy depends heavily on prioritizing education.

Appearing on JoyNews’ PM Express on Tuesday, July 1, the Tamale South MP argued that no component of the ambitious agenda can thrive without a well-educated population.

“To make the 24-hour economy work—even tackling illegal mining (galamsey)—we need educated minds. Whether it’s understanding market pricing, managing birth control, or making informed decisions, education is fundamental,” he stated.

His remarks came shortly after former President John Mahama officially launched the National Democratic Congress’s (NDC) flagship 24-Hour Economy policy.

Iddrisu hailed the launch as a pivotal national milestone, signaling a move from mere slogans to concrete action. He highlighted that Mahama’s idea of a 24-Hour Economy, alongside the Accelerated Export Development Initiative, had been in the works for over four years—even while out of office.

He cited Ghana’s massive import bills—$3 billion on rice, $3.4 billion on cereal grains and frozen poultry, and $2.4 billion on sugar—as a major concern driving Mahama’s renewed focus on local production and self-reliance.

According to Iddrisu, the connection between the 24-Hour Economy and export development is strategic and intentional, aimed at reducing the country’s dependence on imports and achieving food security.

“The President wants to tackle a national issue—our over-reliance on imports—and steer Ghana towards becoming a self-sufficient, food-secure nation,” he added.

Iddrisu also noted Mahama’s decision to appoint Goosie Tanoh, described as one of the NDC’s brightest minds, to spearhead the implementation of the 24-Hour Economy initiative.

What struck him most, however, was Mahama’s assurance that the policy would be led by the private sector, with government playing a supportive, enabling role.

“The President made it clear that this won’t be a government-run initiative. Instead, the private sector will lead, with the government acting as a facilitator,” he concluded.