Let’s Reset Ourselves To Fit Into Governments Resetting Agenda

Ghana stands on the brink of transformation, with new expectations riding on the shoulders of His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama. Following the election, Ghanaians have placed their trust in him, hopeful that his leadership will usher in a new era of economic revival and national progress.

The President’s vision to reset Ghana’s economy comes at a time when the nation is struggling with a deteriorating economic situation—marked by a plummeting currency, high youth unemployment, and a general sense of hopelessness that has gripped the country. Amid these challenges, Ghanaians are desperate for change, seeking relief from their daily struggles.

As President Mahama takes office, there is an overarching hope that his leadership will lead to the rejuvenation of the economy, a stronger cedi against the dollar, and a reduction in the prices of goods and services. This would bring much-needed relief to Ghanaians, reducing the anxiety that has festered among the populace.

However, while the President’s agenda for a “reset” holds promise, Ghanaians must realize that change must come from both the top down and the bottom up. The government’s efforts alone will not yield lasting results unless citizens are equally committed to transforming their attitudes and behaviors. A reset of the economy, without a corresponding reset in individual and collective actions, will result in minimal impact, leaving citizens feeling just as disillusioned as before.

In this critical moment, the people of Ghana must embrace a personal reset, making changes in their everyday habits to align with the government’s agenda for national growth. If the nation’s infrastructure, economy, and institutions are to thrive, individual behavior must mirror the changes happening at the policy level.

A Call for Behavioral Change Across Society

The need for change starts with personal responsibility. Citizens must evaluate their actions and ask themselves whether their behaviors are promoting or hindering progress. For example, the widespread practice of indiscriminate waste disposal and street hawking not only damages the environment but also stifles public health and contributes to the general disarray of the streets. Littering, dumping waste in gutters, and improperly discarding refuse during the rainy season exacerbate flooding, leading to further complications for the city and the health of its people.

In addition, individuals must rethink how they engage in their professional and social lives. Selling land improperly, indulging in unsafe driving, over-speeding, and jail walking are all examples of behaviors that undermine the country’s collective well-being. Late arrivals to the office, lack of time management, and unproductive attitudes toward work only serve to reduce productivity and hinder the national economy. Citizens need to adopt a mindset of fairness, punctuality, and responsibility to improve the economic climate of Ghana.

For law enforcement, the resetting agenda requires stricter adherence to professionalism. The police force, particularly the Motor Traffic and Transport Unit (MTTU), must focus on cutting out corruption and cease accepting bribes. Traffic management and enforcement must be prioritized, with police officers being firm yet fair in their actions. Police officers must be present, alert, and diligent in their work.

A New Relationship with Health and Education

Ghana’s public sector employees, particularly in health and education, also play a crucial role in this reset. Health workers must remember that their primary duty is to the patient. Empathy is essential—healthcare providers should not demand tips for providing quality service, but instead focus on communicating effectively with patients to ensure accurate diagnoses and treatment plans. Addressing the poor life expectancy rate of 66, as reported by the World Health Organization (WHO), requires all hands-on deck. Improving healthcare delivery and ensuring better outcomes for patients will contribute to a healthier, more productive population.

Teachers, too, have a key role in the country’s future. The foundation of education is built on the early years, and teachers must focus on shaping young minds with patience and care. Effective use of teaching hours and an emphasis on the development of early childhood education will help nurture a new generation of skilled and innovative citizens. Additionally, teachers should resist the temptation to prioritize extra classes over regular lessons, ensuring that children receive the most impactful education possible during school hours.

A Collective Effort for National Progress

The effort to reset Ghana’s economy and society is not the responsibility of the government alone; it requires the collective effort of every citizen. As we look toward a new dawn under President Mahama’s leadership, it is essential for every Ghanaian to take personal responsibility for their role in the country’s growth. This includes respecting the laws, practicing good hygiene, managing time effectively, and being mindful of how one’s actions impact the broader community.

In this spirit of collective responsibility, let us all strive to “brighten the corner where we are.” Let us resolve to make our country great and strong, not just through government policies but by embodying the values of discipline, respect, and responsibility in our everyday lives.

As we reset our attitudes and habits, we create a better Ghana for ourselves and future generations. Only then will the government’s efforts to reset the economy truly bear fruit, leading to the prosperous, vibrant nation that every Ghanaian deserves.

 

The Writer Mabel Delassie Awuku is a staff of the Information Services Department (ISD)