UNICEF Ghana, in collaboration with the Ghana Technical and Vocational Education and Training (GTVET) Services, officially launched the Skills Supply and Demand Analysis study in the Ashanti Region. This initiative is a step towards addressing systemic issues within Ghana’s Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) sector, as well as youth unemployment, skills mismatches, and inequitable access to training opportunities.A Focus on Technical and Vocational Education and Training: Bridging the Skills Gap to Drive Economic Growth in Ghana, the study aims to align TVET programs with the evolving needs of the 21st-century workforce. By analyzing the current skills landscape and future labour market demands, the study will inform evidence-based policy decisions and strategic interventions to improve the quality and relevance of TVET education.Mr. Osama Makkawi, UNICEF Representative in Ghana, emphasized the importance of investing in youth skills development as a driver of national development. “By equipping young people with the necessary skills, we can create a more prosperous and equitable future for Ghana,” he said. This latest initiative is part of UNICEF Ghana's ongoing effort to strengthen the TVET sector. Over the past few months, Mr. Makkawi has visited numerous public and private TVET institutions across the country, including the Kumasi Technical Institute (KTI), Afoako TVET, Prefos Private TVET, and higher education institutions like Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, the University for Development Studies, and Cape Coast Technical University, the University of Cape Coast and University of Education Winneba.These visits have provided valuable insights into the challenges facing the TVET sector, including urban-rural disparities, insufficient soft skills training, teacher capacity limitations, and gender stereotypes. By engaging with stakeholders at various levels, UNICEF Ghana is working  in partnership with the GTVET to address these issues and promote inclusive and equitable access to quality TVET education.The Skills Supply and Demand Analysis study represents a pivotal advancement in aligning TVET programs with the evolving needs of the labor market. By identifying the specific skills required, the study ensures that TVET initiatives remain relevant, responsive, and aligned to the demands of the 21st century workforce.Furthermore, the recommendations from this study will serve as a foundation for similar assessments in other regions, as UNICEF plans to scale up its operations and strengthen the existing partnership with TVET sector nationwide. This approach not only addresses current skills gaps but also contributes to building a more sustainable, skilled, and competitive workforce across the country.This event also marked the successful completion of a comprehensive five-week training program designed to equip facilitators with specialized skills in Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Milling and Lathe Machining.

On December 11, 2024, UN Secretary-General António Guterres announced the appointment of Ghana’s Major General Anita Asmah as the Head of Mission and Force Commander of the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF). Major General Asmah will make history as the UN’s first African woman Force Commander.Major General Asmah expressed her excitement and readiness for this groundbreaking role. “I am happy and whole heartedly accept this role to serve. I am so in love with the mission, country and people.  It is an opportunity to lessen their suffering” she said in an interview.Major General Asmah previously served as Deputy Force Commander of UNDOF from 2021 to 2023, during which she also acted as Force Commander for three months (July to November 2022). Reflecting on her tenure, she highlighted the connections she forged with the local communities, UN personnel and her affection for the mission, the region, and its people. This new opportunity, she shared, will allow her to further address the challenges faced by the host communities. Major General Asmah acknowledged several challenges facing the mission, including the region's geopolitical complexities, harsh terrain and extreme weather, among others. Despite these obstacles, she remains optimistic, citing the resilience and capability of the UNDOF team and her confidence in using tact and diplomacy to achieve the mission's objectives. "I am up to the task," she affirmed.She highlighted the impact of the UN Uniformed Gender Parity Strategy (2018–2028), which, she notes, has increased women’s participation in peacekeeping, and called for further incentives to boost parity before the end of the strategy’s implementation. Major General Asmah emphasized that women should view their role in the Military and in UN Peacekeeping as a profession career and strive to excel in their responsibilities. “Only by excelling in our responsibilities can we pave the way for more women to take on command positions and truly transform the landscape of peacekeeping operations” she said.She shared her joy at the news of her appointment: "I quickly checked my phone and saw numerous congratulatory messages," she recounted, beaming with pride at becoming the first African woman UN Force Commander.Commodore Faustina Boakyewaa Anokye, former Deputy Force Commander for the UN Peacekeeping Mission in Western Sahara (MINURSO), described Major General Asmah’s appointment as a significant milestone and a step forward for women and for efforts towards gender parity in peacekeeping. "I feel truly elated," she said, emphasizing that this achievement highlights Ghana’s commitment to inclusion, particularly in the field. She further noted that, with this appointment, Ghana is setting an example for Africa and urged troop-contributing countries to deploy more senior women, enabling them to take on leadership roles. For Ghanaians, Major General Asmah’s journey is particularly inspiring. A proud alumna of Aburi Girls’ Senior High School, she serves as a role model, showcasing how determination and hard work can lead to remarkable achievements and significant contributions on national and global levels. She also holds Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Law degrees from the University of Ghana and is fluent in English and French. With over 31 years of leadership experience in the Ghana Armed Forces and UN Peacekeeping, Major General Asmah is set to celebrate her 60th birthday in February 2025 as she embarks on this historic role.She succeeds Lieutenant General Nirmal Kumar Thapa of Nepal, whose term as UNDOF Force Commander concludes in mid-December 2024 after serving honourably since July 2022.

The United Nations Country Team in Ghana, led by the Resident Coordinator Mr. Charles Abani, paid a courtesy call on President-elect H.E. John Dramani Mahama to extend their warm congratulations on his victory in the 2024 elections. Mr. Abani commended the political leadership for their maturity and commitment, which ensured successful and peaceful elections, noting that Ghana continues to be a beacon of hope and pride for the African continent. Referring to the President-elect’s 120-Day Social Contract, which outlines his immediate action plans for his first 120 days in office, Mr. Abani pledged the UN’s full support in aligning its efforts with the new government’s priorities and the aspirations of the Ghanaian people. In response, President-elect Mahama expressed his gratitude to the UN team for their timely visit and congratulations. He affirmed his readiness to address the expectations of Ghanaians and welcomed the UN’s collaboration in achieving the shared vision of the “Ghana We Want,” as emphasized during his campaign. Additionally, he assured the team of his government’s commitment to fully implement the Affirmative Action Bill and to surpass the 30% benchmark for appointments, promoting gender inclusivity and equity.The meeting, held at the President-elect’s residence, was attended by representatives from key UN agencies and partners, including UNHCR Ghana, UNOPS, International Monetary Fund, the World Bank, UNICEF Ghana, International Labour Organization, UN Women UN-Habitat, Unesco Ghana, UNDSS, and the UN Information Centre.

On this International Human Rights Day 2024, we reflect on the universal principles of equality, dignity, and justice for all. The theme "Our Rights, Our Future, Right Now" serves as a powerful reminder that human rights are not abstract ideals but tangible entitlements that must shape every aspect of our society.
This year marked a significant milestone for Ghana, with generally peaceful general elections held on December 7, reaffirming the nation’s commitment to democratic principles.  Democracy and human rights are deeply intertwined; one cannot flourish without the other. However, we must also recognize that democracy reaches its full potential only when the rights of every individuals — especially those who have been historically marginalized and disadvantaged — are protected and promoted. Ghana, as a newly elected member of the Human Rights Council, is in a key position to lead on ensuring that human rights are ‘a lived reality’ for everyone in Ghana. 
Human Rights: The Foundation of a Just Society
Human rights are the cornerstone of progress and unlocking potential. They empower individuals to live with dignity and to contribute meaningfully to society. They ensure that no one is excluded based on their gender, ability, age, socio-economic or other status. And they serve as a guiding framework for addressing inequality, discrimination, and injustice.
This year, Ghana made significant strides in advancing human rights as it witnesses its first female Vice President elect and passage of the Affirmative Action Bill, signifiers of steps towards achieving gender equality and women’s representation in leadership. The largely peaceful elections reaffirmed Ghana’s status as a leader in democratic governance and efforts to improve access to education and healthcare have helped strengthen the foundations of a rights-based society. 
Yet, challenges remain. As reports from the recent elections show, accessibility for persons with disabilities remains an issue and there is a clear need for more inclusive policies to access public spaces, education, and employment. Marginalized communities still face systemic inequities, particularly with regards to key populations. Rural communities need investments that address their unique challenges, from inadequate healthcare infrastructure to limited access to technology. These are not just development goals — they are human rights imperatives and will support Ghana to fulfil the human rights recommendations that it has accepted, including its most recent Universal Periodic Review.
Turning Policies into Realities
Ghana has made commendable progress in developing human rights frameworks. Yet policies alone are not enough — they must be implemented effectively. Moreover, it is essential to assess whether existing and new legislation meets the standards set by Ghana’s Constitution and its regional and international human rights commitments.
To make human rights a lived reality, Ghana must:
1.    Invest Resources: Adequate funding, infrastructure, and trained personnel are essential to support the implementation of human rights policies.
2.    Strengthen Capacities: Institutions, including Commission for Human Rights and Administrative Justice and the National Mechanism for Implementation, Reporting and Follow-up, and the Human Rights Committee must be further equipped with the resources, knowledge and tools to address systemic challenges.
3.    Engaged Communities: Policymaking and implementation must be participatory, ensuring that the voices of marginalized groups shape solutions tailored to their needs.
The recently-passed Affirmative Action Gender Bill offers an excellent opportunity to start a meaningful journey to achieve parity.
The Power of Human Rights Education
Education remains one of the most powerful tools for change. By strengthening awareness of human rights, we can challenge harmful practices, empower marginalized groups, and strengthen societal resilience. For policymakers and law enforcement, training on human rights principles ensures decisions and actions that reflect Ghana’s commitment to dignity and fairness. For young people (Ghana’s largest demographic and critical for progress), human rights education empowers them to become active citizens who advocate for change, contribute to addressing injustice, and build a future rooted in respect for all. 
A Call to Action
On this Human Rights Day, let us renew our commitment to upholding the rights for everyone in Ghana. Governments, civil society, the private sector, comunities and individuals must work together to ensure that human rights are not just aspirations but lived realities.
The United Nations in Ghana, recognizing the transformative force of human rights, is proud to support initiatives that advance human rights, from promoting inclusive governance to strengthening human rights education. We remain steadfast in our partnership with the government, civil society, and communities of Ghana to build a nation where the rights of all are respected, protected, and fulfilled.
Human rights are not a gift — they are a guarantee. By taking bold action today, we can create a future where every person in Ghana can live with dignity, equality, and opportunity.
The time to act is now. Our rights, our future, right now.