GITFiC launches AfCFTA Curriculumn to boost Trade Education in Africa 

The Ghana International Trade & Finance Conference (GITFiC) has officially launched the GITFiC-AfCFTA Curriculum under the theme: “Impacting Knowledge, Accelerating Sensitization, and Preparing Africa’s Youthful Generation for the AfCFTA through Education.”

Supported by the World Bank, this initiative aims to drive innovative trade strategies and revolutionary educational programs across Africa, according to Mr. Selasi Koffi Ackom, CEO of GITFiC.

“Today, we embark on a journey that will serve as a springboard for equipping the next generation with the knowledge, skills, and strategies necessary to thrive in a rapidly evolving economic landscape,” Mr. Ackom stated.

The curriculum will be implemented in all AfCFTA-ratified member states, targeting tertiary institutions, particularly those affiliated with the GITFiC-AfCFTA Tertiary Students Club. The goal is to educate, inform, and sensitize students and academics on the AfCFTA to enhance its impact.

Course Objectives

By the end of the program, students will be able to:

• Describe the objectives and scope of AfCFTA.
• Evaluate the potential impact of AfCFTA on intra-African trade.
• Analyze trade barriers in Africa and strategies for overcoming them.
• Discuss the role of digital trade and investment protection under AfCFTA.
• Apply theoretical and practical concepts to real-world case studies.
• Develop strategies for businesses to capitalize on AfCFTA opportunities.

Speeches and Remarks

Hon. Bernard Ahiafor, First Deputy Speaker of Parliament and MP for Ketu South, who represented the Speaker of Parliament at the event, emphasized that the curriculum’s launch is a significant step toward shaping Africa’s economic integration and prosperity.

“Africa is a continent of immense potential, rich in natural resources, diverse cultures, and a youthful population capable of driving future growth. However, numerous challenges hinder its development and prevent it from fully realizing its potential,” Hon. Ahiafor noted.

He stressed that the successful implementation of AfCFTA requires skilled professionals and institutions capable of managing cross-border trade, enforcing trade regulations, and ensuring compliance with agreements.

Representing the Minister of Trade, Industry, and Agribusiness, Mr. Ben Assiam, Director of the Trade Division, highlighted that the curriculum is designed to equip students and young professionals with the necessary knowledge and skills to navigate the AfCFTA framework effectively.

“AfCFTA is the world’s largest free trade area, covering 1.4 billion people with a combined GDP of over $3.4 trillion. Its primary objective is to create a single market for goods and services across Africa, promoting economic integration, sustainable development, and boosting intra-African trade,” he explained.

Mr. Assiam commended Ghana’s proactive role in the AfCFTA, emphasizing the country’s progress since the agreement’s inception. He encouraged the youth to maximize the benefits of the curriculum by analyzing AfCFTA’s role in fostering regional economic integration and political cooperation.

By Madjid Diallo | GhanaNewsOnline