Chief Executive Officer of the National Youth Authority (NYA), Osman Ayariga, has offered a commendatory assessment of President John Dramani Mahama’s establishment of the Ministry for Youth Development and Empowerment, highlighting its strategic importance in addressing the multifaceted challenges facing Ghana’s young populace. Speaking at the National Youth Forum, held at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA) on Wednesday, August 19th, Mr. Ayariga expressed significant satisfaction with the government’s deliberate shift towards prioritizing youth development as a cornerstone of national progress. The Ministry, he asserted, represents a crucial step in aligning national strategies with the aspirations of Ghana’s youth, a mission he believes is fundamentally vital for the nation’s future.
Mr. Ayariga underscored the government’s commitment to equipping young people with the skills and opportunities necessary to transition into economically viable positions. His statement revealed a particular emphasis on fostering entrepreneurial ventures, with the government actively investing in training and mentorship programs designed to cultivate a new generation of entrepreneurs. ‘Our focus has been to train and give Ghanaian youth the opportunity and the know-how to be entrepreneurs,’ he stated, emphasizing a crucial aspect of the strategy. This commitment extends beyond simply providing employment; it encompasses the development of a robust system of skills acquisition and support, enabling young people to create sustainable businesses and contribute meaningfully to the Ghanaian economy.
He further elaborated on the government’s approach to creating an enabling environment for young people to acquire relevant skills, build networks, and establish businesses. Mr. Ayariga stressed that while conventional employment opportunities are important, Ghana’s youth require a more holistic approach. ‘Young Ghanaians require more than conventional employment opportunities,’ he explained. ‘We need skills development and supportive systems that will enable them to create jobs for themselves and others.’ This perspective underscores a broader understanding of the challenges facing young people and the need for targeted interventions.
The establishment of the Ministry, according to Mr. Ayariga, is a strategic investment in the future of Ghana. He stated that it represents a coordinated response to the specific needs and aspirations of Ghana’s youth. ‘The Ministry is therefore an important step toward providing a coordinated response to the needs and aspirations of Ghana’s youth,’ he added. The government’s initiative is viewed as a vital move to solidify Ghana’s position as a nation capable of harnessing the full potential of its youth.
Furthermore, the NYA, under Mr. Ayariga’s leadership, emphasized the importance of fostering a culture of innovation and risk-taking among young Ghanaians. He pointed to the government’s investments in initiatives designed to stimulate creativity and problem-solving, recognizing that these are essential for long-term economic growth. The government’s focus on skills development and business creation is, therefore, a key component of a broader strategy aimed at unlocking the potential of Ghana’s young population and securing its future prosperity.
The Ministry’s initiatives are expected to have a significant impact on the Ghanaian economy, contributing to increased productivity, job creation, and overall economic growth. The government’s commitment to youth empowerment underscores its dedication to building a strong and vibrant national economy, and the Ministry’s actions are a testament to this commitment. Mr. Ayariga further highlighted the importance of establishing robust mentorship programs and providing access to resources to support young entrepreneurs, emphasizing the need for a supportive ecosystem for innovation and growth. The long-term success of the Ministry will undoubtedly depend on the continued commitment of the government to fostering a thriving and prosperous future for Ghana’s youth.”
Watch Related Video
Source: Adom Online
