By Bertha Demah
First Deputy Speaker of Parliament and Member of Parliament for Akatsi South, Bernard Ahiafor, has stated that the launch of Ghana International Trade & Finance – African Continental Free Trade Area (GITFiC-AfCFTA) curriculum into tertiary institutions reflects Ghana’s vision towards a united, stronger, and more resilient Africa.
“As we launch this curriculum today, we are also launching a vision for a united, stronger, and more resilient Africa,” he stated.
Speaking at the launch in Accra, yesterday, Lawyer Ahiafor indicated that the curriculum symbolized a collective commitment to a future where trade barriers are eliminated, and that
“This curriculum represents our collective commitment to a future where trade barriers are eliminated, economies are interconnected, and opportunities are accessible to all Africans.”
Honourable Ahiafor mentioned that the vision could only become a reality if Ghana invests in its educational institutions. “But this vision can only be realized if we invest in our educational institutions, ensuring they provide the best possible training for the next generation of African leaders,” he said.
The Member of Parliament for Akatsi South, further stressed the importance of skilled professionals for the effective implementation of the AfCFTA, saying that, “The successful implementation of AfCFTA will require skilled professionals and institutions capable of managing cross-border trade, enforcing trade regulations, and ensuring compliance with the agreement’s provisions. These institutions must evolve to meet the demands of a changing global economy.”
While recognizing the launch of the curriculum as a crucial first step, Hon. Ahiafor called for continuous collaboration among governments, universities, industry leaders, and the youth to ensure the curriculum remained relevant and adaptable to changes in trade, technology, and innovation.
“We must work together to ensure that this curriculum is implemented in a way that is relevant, accessible, and responsive to the ever-evolving landscape of international trade and regional integration,” he advised
Again, he called for a commitment to the continuous development of the curriculum, updating it regularly to reflect changes in trade, technology, and innovation.
Hon. Ahiafor expressed his gratitude to all who contributed to the creation of the curriculum for universities and urging that “Let us embrace this opportunity with determination and hope. Together, we will build a future of economic integration, shared prosperity, and a more connected, thriving Africa.”
Mr. Ben Assiam, speaking on behalf of the Minister of Trade, Industry, and Agribusiness, also emphasized the importance of the AfCFTA agreement, which encompasses 1.4 billion people and a combined GDP of over $3.4 trillion.
He explained that AfCFTA’s primary objective was to create a single market for goods and services across African nations, promoting economic integration, and facilitating the movement of people and goods.
Mr. Assiam who is also the director for multilateral Regional and bilateral Trade Division highlighted Ghana’s proactive role in AfCFTA and outlined the emerging opportunities for the country to strengthen its Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) sector within the AfCFTA framework.
“The Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Agribusiness is committed to promoting businesses and SMEs to fully take advantage of the opportunities presented by AfCFTA. In this regard, the Ministry has been collaborating with various institutions to advance the AfCFTA agenda,” he underscored.
Mr. Assiam commended the Ghana Institute of Trade and Finance (GITFiC) for its efforts in developing the GITFIC-AFCFTA curriculum in collaboration with various stakeholders, recognizing its importance in promoting African integration at the tertiary level.
