Emerging Public Leaders of Ghana (EPL Ghana), an organization dedicated to empowering the next generation of public service professionals, has concluded its three-day final training workshop for the fifth cohort of its Public Service Fellowship.

The 25 fellows were evaluated on their community assessment report regarding the Volta River Authority’s induced Akosombo Dam spillage disaster, which impacted over 30,000 people, damaging numerous farms, houses, and livelihoods across several communities.

Many victims were camped at Mepe and surrounding areas in the North Tongu and South Tongu districts of the Volta Region.

Madam Efua Kwaambaa Turkson, EPL Ghana's Gender Equity and Research Manager, led the training.

She explained, “The purpose of the workshop was twofold: to discuss the policy assessment and the report’s findings, and to enhance the fellows’ capacities.

They had a session on how artificial intelligence (AI) impacts the public sector, among others.”

The training also covered policies in Ghana’s public sector and how to draft and implement effective policies aimed at improving the lives of Ghanaians.

Regarding the community assessment report, Madam Turkson noted that the disaster occurred during the fellowship period, prompting EPL Ghana to have the fellows undertake a comprehensive report on it.

She highlighted that while the government provided some support, such as water and essential facilities, there were significant challenges, including the destruction of education and livelihoods and food insecurity.

The fellows found that community involvement in pre-disaster simulation exercises was minimal.

 They raised issues such as land ownership and utilization, noting that socio-cultural factors contributed to the reluctance of community members to relocate.

The final report will be submitted to the Volta Regional Coordinating Council, the two districts, and other relevant institutions, showcasing EPL Ghana and its fellows' contributions to addressing the disaster.

 The fellows were the first to conduct a policy assessment and engagement on the Mepe disaster, beyond the donations and relief efforts by state and non-state actors.

The fellows will graduate on July 16 at the British Council in Accra, following several activities, including a policy debate on the disaster.

Dr. Vandyck Lomotey, a workshop facilitator, emphasized the importance of innovation and technology in public service.

 He encouraged the fellows to use AI and other technologies to address public sector challenges, such as corruption and delayed procurements.

Dr. Lomotey, also the Country Programmes Director for Generation Ghana, highlighted the need for investment, mentorship, and support for young talents to ensure Ghana's bright future.

Fellows shared their experiences, with Lawrence Nii Kotey Neequaye, President of Cohort 5, praising the community of like-minded leaders and hands-on training provided by EPL Ghana. Deborah Nana Ama Abbey, a fellow, appreciated the meritocratic recruitment process and the detailed orientation and ongoing support from EPL Ghana.

The fellowship programme includes components like meritocratic recruitment, performance management, responsive training, community service projects, mentorship, and alumni engagement.

 These are designed to equip young graduates with the skills needed for public service careers, contributing to good governance and nation-building.

Since its inception, EPL Ghana has accepted 20-35 fellows per cohort, with 70 alumni currently serving in over 34 public service institutions across Ghana.

 The programme has increased gender diversity, with 57% female participation, and 65% of alumni working in civil service, shaping policy and governance.

The NGO has collaborated with 24 ministries and agencies, enhancing public administration nationwide, and partnered with 10 public sector institutions.

The fellows gain a comprehensive outlook from mentors in both the public and private sectors, fostering efficient service delivery and civic responsibility.