Dr Audrey Smock Amoah, Director-General of the National Development Planning Commission (NDPC), has called for stronger coordination between government, academia, and citizens to ensure Ghana’s national development initiatives deliver tangible results.

Speaking at the 20th Harmattan School of the University for Development Studies (UDS), in Tamale on Thursday, 12th February 2025, Dr Amoah emphasised the importance of moving the 24-Hour Economy, the Big Push infrastructure programme, and MahamaCares “from policy intention to practical outcomes.” She noted, “A policy that is not implemented remains an intention, not development,” stressing NDPC’s mandate to ensure national priorities are well planned, coordinated, and monitored across sectors and districts.

She highlighted the interdependence of these initiatives, explaining that job creation under the 24-Hour Economy depends on infrastructure delivery through the Big Push, while both rely on a healthy population supported by MahamaCares. 

The Director-General also underscored the role of universities in bridging the policy–practice gap, praising UDS for its community-based education model and proposing joint research and implementation partnerships.

Touching on skills and job creation, she said, “Making the 24-Hour Economy work at scale requires addressing gaps in technical skills, digital literacy, and vocational training,” adding that NDPC is collaborating with the Ministry of Education to align education and apprenticeships with industry needs. 

On infrastructure, she cited projects like the Pwalugu Multipurpose Dam as examples of how coordinated planning can deliver multiple social and economic benefits.

Regarding healthcare, Dr Amoah described MahamaCares as a complementary initiative to the National Health Insurance Scheme, providing financial support for costly chronic illnesses and strengthening health infrastructure. She stressed that citizen participation and transparent monitoring are crucial for success, noting, “When communities have access to information on project timelines, budgets, and responsibilities, they are better positioned to ensure commitments are realised.”

Concluding her address, Dr Amoah called on all stakeholders to commit to collective action, saying, “The future is already here. Your choices today matter greatly for tomorrow. Everyone has a role to play in building our nation.”