Ghana, UNDP ELP concludes with Focus on Future-Ready Leadership

The recent Executive Leadership Programme (ELP) took place in Ada. It ran from April 23 to 26, 2025. The event focused on developing future-ready leadership. Key themes included boldness, accountability, and innovation.

This programme was organized by the Government of Ghana and the UNDP. Its theme was “Re-imagining Leadership in a ‘Reset’ Ghana.” The ELP responded to Ghana’s democratic transition and new Cabinet formation.

The four-day event addressed critical socio-economic challenges. These included youth unemployment, inequality, and climate vulnerability. It brought together ministers, deputy ministers, senior advisors, private sector leaders, and African Development Bank representatives.

The ELP emphasized responsive governance and institutional reform. Interactive sessions encouraged participants to rethink leadership in a complex world. President John Dramani Mahama stated that Ghana is at a crossroads.

He urged leaders to think and act differently. “The true measure of our success is the lives we touch,” he said. The programme featured thematic modules on various leadership topics.

Facilitators included leading African experts and former heads of state. President Mahama highlighted the importance of partnerships for development. He noted that collaboration with UNDP can unify stakeholders around a common agenda.

Former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan spoke about education's role in innovation. He stressed investing in both technology and people for progress across Africa.

Gender equity in governance was also emphasized during the programme. A session with women political leaders showcased Ghana’s advancements in this area. Ahunna Eziakonwa from UNDP discussed sustaining these gains.

“Let us re-imagine leadership for the future we are building,” she said. The ELP is part of a broader Regional Leadership Programme for Africa. It aims to foster transformative leadership based on empathy and collaboration.

Both the Government of Ghana and UNDP committed to applying insights from the programme. They aim to shape governance strategies for inclusive national development.