“They’re Taking Our Best” – Alpha Hour Pastor Laments Loss of Top Talent to Foreign Nations
By: Isaac Boamah Darko
Rev. Elvis Agyemang, founder and lead pastor of Grace Mountain Ministry, has expressed his frustration over the brain drain phenomenon during a recent episode of the popular midnight online prayer session, Alpha Hour. He highlighted the fact that obtaining a scholarship to study abroad is no longer seen as a breakthrough, but rather as a means for the Western world to exploit the talents of individuals from developing nations.
In his passionate speech, Rev. Agyemang lamented the loss of top talent to foreign countries, stating, “They’re taking our best.” He emphasized that even if Africans use products made in their own countries, they are often ridiculed, while only imported Western goods are seen as prestigious. He called for a change in mindset, stating that it takes favor for people to recognize the potential and value within others. He emphasized that being good at what you do is not enough; people must also perceive and acknowledge your abilities.
Rev. Agyemang further highlighted the challenges faced by talented individuals in Ghana, stating that there is an invisible barrier preventing their recognition. He emphasized that in order to be acknowledged in Ghana, one must go above and beyond and put in extra effort. He compared the rewards and recognition given to individuals in other countries for their achievements, which are often overlooked in Ghana.
The pastor also drew attention to the tendency to idolize white people, forgetting that skin color does not determine one’s worth or abilities. He pointed out that there are Ghanaian fashion designers who are just as talented, if not more so, than renowned international designers, yet they are often overlooked. Even when Ghanaians do support local talent, they tend to pay significantly less for their products compared to imported luxury brands.
Rev. Agyemang shared a personal anecdote about his sister-in-law who received a scholarship to study in the UK, fully funded by the government of another country. He expressed his disappointment, realizing that staying in Ghana with all her expertise and knowledge would not garner the same recognition and support. He called on the Ministry of Education to identify and support brilliant individuals within the country, ensuring they receive every opportunity to excel academically without having to leave.
The pastor questioned why the Western world continues to offer scholarships to talented students from developing nations if it did not benefit them in some way. He argued that they are taking away the best from Ghana because the country fails to recognize and appreciate its own talent, having been blinded by external influences.
Rev. Elvis Agyemang’s passionate plea sheds light on the issue of brain drain and the challenges faced by talented individuals in Ghana. His call for recognition and support for local talent is a reminder of the importance of valuing and nurturing the potential within one’s own country.