The Deputy Minister-designate for Finance, Thomas Nyarko Ampem, has committed to working closely with the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) to enhance revenue collection using technological advancements.
During his vetting before Parliament’s Appointments Committee on Monday, February 24, Ampem emphasized the critical role of technology in improving public finance management and ensuring efficient revenue mobilization.
“I will work with my minister, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, and the Ghana Revenue Authority to leverage technology in maximizing revenue collection,” he stated.
Ampem highlighted the expertise within the GRA, noting that with the right leadership and incentives, they can significantly improve revenue generation. He reiterated that embracing technology is essential for meeting the country’s fiscal targets.
“We will build on the existing systems and infrastructure. Governance is a continuous process, and we intend to fully utilize the available resources to improve efficiency. Our approach will be aggressive in revenue generation while ensuring we keep expenditures under control,” he added.
Touching on education, Ampem reaffirmed his support for the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy, dismissing any claims that the programme would be cancelled under the next NDC administration.
“There is no intention to cancel Free SHS. My focus, alongside the Finance Minister, will be to ensure adequate funding for its implementation,” he assured.
He further clarified that his concerns about the policy are not about its funding but rather its execution.
“If I have any reservations about Free SHS, they are related to its implementation and not the funding. President Mahama has been clear—he will not cancel Free SHS, and I trust that he will keep his word,” he stated.
Ampem emphasized the importance of national consensus on educational reforms, stating that if Ghanaians agree on adjustments to the policy and it becomes official government direction, he will fully support its implementation.
