MoMo Executive: Skills Matter More Than Degrees in Ghana

Students across Ghana are getting a wake-up call that could reshape their futures for the better.

Makafui Mattah, Senior Manager for Financial Operations at MobileMoney Fintech, delivered an empowering message at the 2026 National Youth Mentorship Summit at the University of Ghana. He told students that while their degrees open doors, developing practical skills determines how far they'll go in their careers.

The job market has shifted dramatically, and Mattah's advice reflects what employers actually need today. "Today, employers are no longer looking only for people with certificates; they are looking for people who can solve problems, demonstrate skills and deliver results," he explained to the summit attendees.

Mattah encouraged students to develop digital literacy in areas like artificial intelligence, big data, and cybersecurity. These fields are growing rapidly worldwide, and they'll touch every profession from business to medicine.

But technical skills alone aren't enough. Mattah emphasized that communication, critical thinking, adaptability, and emotional intelligence matter just as much. "Your technical skills may get you hired, but your human skills are what will keep you employed, earn you promotions and build lasting professional relationships," he said.

He challenged a common belief that holds many young people back. Rather than accepting that no jobs exist in Ghana, Mattah pointed out that employers often struggle to fill vacancies because they can't find candidates with the right mix of technical competence and professional behavior.

The best part? Students don't need expensive programs to build these skills. Mattah highlighted free platforms like the MTN Ghana Foundation Skills Academy, Coursera, Udemy, ALX, and YouTube where anyone can learn.

Why This Inspires

This message puts control back in students' hands. Instead of waiting for perfect opportunities, young Ghanaians can start building their futures right now with free resources and intentional preparation. Mattah isn't just describing problems; he's offering solutions that any motivated student can act on today.

Albert Prempeh Kusi, CEO of LEC Group, added to the momentum by encouraging students to embrace innovation and even start investing in the capital market with small amounts to build future wealth.

Ghana's youth are receiving clear guidance on how to turn their education into lasting career success.