Less leaves = less energy being made = less growth.
It is that simple!
So, no, definitely do not cut off any leaves, it will slow development, not speed it up.
Your plant needs at least 14 hours of light, however, 18 light, 6 darkness is the optimal lighting schedule for cannabis in vegetative growth.
Her current schedule of 11 hours of light is barely sufficient to sustain life.
She will also need a much larger container for good root growth.
Hope this helps, Organoman.