Emerging Public Leaders Graduates Sixth Cohort, Encouraging Change-Making in Public Service
The Emerging Public Leaders (EPL) of Ghana, a non-profit organisation dedicated to developing young professionals for public service, recently graduated its sixth cohort of the Public Service Fellowship. The event, held under the theme “Staying to Build: Re-Imagining Public Service Leadership,” celebrated 33 young leaders who completed a year of service in various government and civil society institutions across the country.
A Year of Service and Growth
The Fellows were placed in notable organizations such as the Ministry of Finance, Ghana Education Service, Ghana Commodity Exchange, Ghana Enterprises Agency, National Development Planning Commission, and the Millennium Development Authority. These placements provided them with hands-on experience and opportunities to contribute to reforms, operational improvements, and innovation within their respective institutions.
Ms Juliet Amoah, the Country Director of EPL Ghana, emphasized the importance of viewing public service as a meaningful career path rather than an alternative option. She encouraged the graduates to serve with purpose, innovation, and accountability, highlighting that public service should not be seen as a fallback but as a platform for impactful change.
Shaping the Future of Public Service
Amoah stressed the need for a shift in mindset regarding public service. She explained that reimagining it means breaking free from inefficiency, bureaucracy, and mistrust. It involves changing policies and mindsets, digitizing services while humanizing governance, and filling positions with individuals who bring values to their roles.
She also urged the graduates to build institutions that can withstand change and foster workplace cultures that protect the vulnerable, elevate merit, and dignify service. According to Amoah, reimagining public service requires creating systems where integrity is the norm, collaboration across sectors is standard, and technology is leveraged to deliver fairer and more efficient services.
Commitment to Nation-Building
Amoah encouraged the graduates to stay and contribute to the development of the nation. She described staying as an active choice rooted in hope, declaring through action that the country is worth investing in. This message resonated deeply with the Fellows, many of whom expressed a strong commitment to continuing their work in public service.
Mrs Elizabeth-Zionita Akorfa Dzah, Head of Programmes at EPL Ghana, shared stories of how some trainees discovered their leadership voice despite initial challenges. She highlighted that public service often involves consistent effort, thoughtful questioning, and starting small with big aspirations.
Recognizing Excellence
The ceremony included the presentation of several awards recognizing outstanding contributions by the Fellows. Ms Charity Ama Yekple received the Public Service Fellowship Excellence Award, while Mr Abel Buertey Okudzeto was honored with the “Innovation in Leadership Award.” Naomi Tiyumba Joseph was awarded the EPL Values Ambassador Award.
Additionally, Priscilla Elorm Akrong and Mohammed Napare Abdul Hakam from Cohort VII were presented with the “Founders’ Awards” for their selection as cohort representatives on the EPL Ghana Board and as liaisons.
Building a Legacy
The Cohort VI Fellows were inducted into the EPL Alumni Network, which now includes over 500 young public service professionals. They also presented citations of appreciation to members of the EPL team and honored peers whose contributions enhanced the group experience.
Mr Michael Agbenyegah, a member of the graduating cohort, delivered a powerful poem that captured the essence of public service, reflecting the spirit and dedication of the Fellows.
Strengthening Public Service Delivery
EPL Global, along with facilitators, mentors, and supervisors, plays a crucial role in the success of the program. The organization works with partners to strengthen public service delivery through carefully designed programs and fellowships. Its mission is to equip and raise ethically conscious young Ghanaians who can drive systemic change in the public sector.
Through its initiatives, EPL continues to shape the future of public service in Ghana, ensuring that young professionals are prepared to lead with integrity, innovation, and a commitment to national development.
