
Adapting to changing global landscape: Alhaji Ibrahim advocates skills development
The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Dara Salam Estates Ltd, Alhaji Yusif Ibrahim, has underscored the need to focus on skill development, enhance mental health awareness and support the country’s vulnerable populations, particularly women and children.
That, he said, would help the country to adapt to a changing global landscape.
“By empowering individuals, we create a strong foundation for societal progress,” he said at the opening of the 76th Annual New Year School and Conference in Accra last Monday.
Conference
Organised by the School of Continuing and Distance Education, College of Education of the University of Ghana, the New Year School and Conference provides a platform to discuss national issues and proffer solutions to them.
This year’s event was on the theme: “Attaining the 5-Ps of Sustainable Development for a Resilient Ghana: People, Planet, Prosperity, Peace and Partnership”.
Natural Resources
Alhaji Ibrahim has a number of business interests, including holding shares in Guaranty Trust Bank. On natural resources, he explained that Ghana’s natural resources were among its most valuable assets.
However, he said with climate change posing a threat to the country’s ecosystems, agriculture and livelihoods, it was crucial to take immediate action against the dangers of climate change.
As a result, he advocated the embracement of sustainable agricultural methods, promotion of afforestation and adoption of renewable energy to lower the country’s carbon footprint while fulfilling our energy needs.
“At African Transformers Limited, we have shown how utilising local energy solutions can promote sustainability.
“Let’s keep in mind that protecting our planet is not just about conservation; it’s also about creating opportunities for future generations,” he added.
Prosperity
On economic prosperity, the CEO of Dara Salam Estates Ltd said efforts towards economic prosperity should be both inclusive and sustainable.
“To foster economic resilience, we must invest in entrepreneurship, create more job opportunities and adopt technological innovations that harmonise growth with ecological responsibility.
“It's not sufficient to simply grow; we need to ensure that this growth benefits all parts of society while also protecting the environment,” he said.
He disclosed that at Dara Salam Estates, his team had focused on innovative housing solutions that catered not only for urban elites but also to middle and low-income families, underscoring the need to promote green energy solutions.
He further explained that without peace, progress was unattainable, adding, “A peaceful society serves as the foundation for all other ambitions. Peace encourages trust, promotes trade and stimulates creativity. Effective governance, transparency and accountability are essential for maintaining social harmony and addressing conflict”.
Ultimately, he said sustainable development required a collective effort, saying collaborations among government, the private sector, civil society and international partners were crucial for realising the 5-Ps.
Future
Alhaji Ibrahim reminded participants that sustainable development was a journey, not a destination.
“Sustainable development requires continuous effort, constant learning and the courage to make difficult decisions.
“But I am confident that with our resilience, willingness to adopt technology and commitment to the 5-Ps as the cornerstone of our vision for a sustainable, inclusive and thriving future, we can create a better future for all Ghanaians,” he added.