Human skills still drive progress in technology age – Nana Oye

By: Eugene Dogbatse Atsu
Deputy Chief of Staff Nana Oye Bampoe Addo says Ghana’s Labour Exchange Programme demonstrates that human skills remain the nation’s most valuable asset amid rapid technological advancement.

Speaking at HR Café 2026 in Accra, Nana Oye Bampoe Addo emphasized that despite the growing influence of artificial intelligence and digital technologies, human talent continues to be the foundation of innovation, productivity, and sustainable development.

The conference is focused on technology, AI, and the future of public sector transformation across Africa.

She said Ghana’s Labour Exchange Programme highlights the importance of investing in people and equipping them with the skills needed to compete in an increasingly technology-driven global economy.

“Ghana’s Labour Exchange Programme shows that human skills remain our most valuable currency in this technological era,” Nana Oye stated.

According to her, technology should not be viewed as a substitute for human capability but as a tool that enhances efficiency and creates new opportunities for workers.

She noted that skills such as creativity, problem-solving, leadership, adaptability, and emotional intelligence remain essential qualities that machines cannot fully replicate.

Nana Oye stressed that governments, educational institutions, and employers must work together to prepare workers for emerging industries and evolving labour market demands.

She explained that the Labour Exchange Programme forms part of broader efforts to create employment opportunities for Ghanaian youth while ensuring that recruitment processes remain transparent, ethical, and skills-driven.

The initiative is also aimed at connecting qualified young people with opportunities in international labour markets.

“The future of work belongs to those who can combine technological knowledge with strong human skills. That is where Africa’s greatest advantage lies,” she said.

She further noted that Africa’s youthful population presents a significant opportunity for economic transformation if countries invest in human capital development and workforce readiness.

She also highlighted the role of HR professionals in helping institutions adapt to technological change while ensuring that workers remain at the centre of policy and decision-making.

“For a decade, HR Café has served as a premier platform for advancing excellence in human resource management and reimagining governance in Africa,” she said, describing the forum as an important avenue for knowledge sharing and collaboration among African countries.