The Chief Executive Officer of the National Youth Authority (NYA), Osman Abdulai Ayariga, has issued a forceful and urgent call for a fundamental shift in how decisions impacting young people are made – a move that prioritizes direct engagement and active participation. Mr. Ayariga’s statement, delivered at the National Youth Parliament Mock Sitting, underscores a critical need to move beyond simply discussing youth concerns within established forums, and instead, actively involve young people in the very processes that shape their lives. For too long, the focus has been on analyzing problems and offering solutions – a reactive approach that fails to tap into the dynamism and potential of the next generation.
This sentiment stems from a growing recognition that young people are not simply passive recipients of policy recommendations, but rather active contributors to Ghana’s development. As students, workers, entrepreneurs, professionals, and active participants in community leadership, they already possess a wealth of knowledge, skills, and perspectives crucial to shaping the future. Mr. Ayariga contends that this inherent value shouldn’t be overlooked.
He underscored that young people are not ‘citizens-in-waiting’ but rather active participants in Ghana’s development, already contributing significantly across various sectors. “Young people are already engaged in these crucial roles,” he stated, “from contributing as students, working as laborers, developing businesses, and even engaging as voters.” This multifaceted engagement demonstrates a level of commitment and influence that demands a more participatory approach to policymaking.
The crux of Mr. Ayariga’s argument lies in the necessity of creating meaningful opportunities for youth to actively participate in governance and national discourse. He explicitly urged institutions to establish structures that foster this engagement, moving beyond simply providing platforms for speaking. He emphasized that genuine participation requires more than simply allowing young people to voice their opinions; it demands the provision of the necessary tools and the confidence to contribute effectively.
“Do not come merely because you are young,” Mr. Ayariga asserted, “Come because you have ideas. Come because you have studied the issues. Come because you possess the knowledge, competence, and confidence to contribute meaningfully to the conversation.” He further highlighted the importance of equipping young people with the resources they need to effectively engage – this includes access to training, mentorship, and opportunities for practical application of their knowledge. The NYA’s perspective is crucial, given the growing disparity in representation within policy circles. The current system often silences the voices of young people, hindering their ability to influence the decisions that directly affect their futures.
The call for more active participation isn’t simply about fairness; it’s about maximizing the potential of Ghana’s youth. By actively involving them in the design and implementation of policies, the NYA can ensure that solutions are rooted in the lived experiences and perspectives of those most affected, leading to a more responsive and effective governance system. The emphasis on equipping young people with the tools to contribute meaningfully represents a vital step towards unlocking their full potential and strengthening Ghana’s future. The NYA’s leadership underscores a paradigm shift, recognizing the inherent value of youth participation and advocating for a more inclusive and participatory approach to policymaking.
Further analysis reveals that the current system often overlooks the critical role that young people play in shaping societal values and priorities. The lack of consistent engagement undermines the effectiveness of policies and creates an imbalance in the decision-making process. Mr. Ayariga’s statement serves as a crucial catalyst for change, urging institutions to prioritize the active involvement of young people as a cornerstone of effective governance. The urgency of this call underscores the vital need for a renewed commitment to empowering the next generation – a commitment that will undoubtedly have far-reaching consequences for Ghana’s trajectory.
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Source: Adom Online
