Former President John Dramani Mahama recently addressed a gathering of young people in the Volta Region, a major stronghold of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), as part of his campaign tour . He posed a thought-provoking question to the youth: "Are you ready to leave Ghana and work abroad if I am elected?" This sparked diverse responses from the Gen Z crowd, reflecting their frustrations with limited job opportunities and high unemployment rates in Ghana.

Mahama assured the youth that his government would facilitate programs and partnerships enabling them to gain work experience abroad, should they choose . He emphasized that his primary goal is to improve job conditions in Ghana, making working abroad an option, not a necessity. The crowd reacted with a mix of optimism and caution, appreciating Mahama's openness but also expressing skepticism about the country's potential for real transformation.

Some key concerns and ideas discussed during the gathering include:

- *Job Opportunities Abroad*: Mahama's plan to create pathways for young people to gain work experience abroad, addressing the brain drain and providing opportunities for personal and professional growth.


- *Transforming Ghana*: The need for a transformed Ghana where young people can build their careers and settle down, with improved job conditions and opportunities.
- *Skepticism and Hope*: The crowd's mixed reaction, reflecting both optimism and caution, with some unsure about the feasibility of Mahama's promises.

Mahama's campaign tour aims to engage with various stakeholders, including traditional and religious leaders, community members, market women, and the youth . His message focuses on building a better Ghana, where every young person feels proud to live and work.