Vice President of the Republic of Ghana, Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, has reaffirmed her strong belief in the immense potential of Ghanaian youth, stressing that all they need is encouragement and the right opportunities to thrive.
Speaking during a working visit to the Ministry of Youth Development and Empowerment, the Vice President engaged stakeholders on the ministry’s ongoing programs and initiatives aligned with Ghana’s national development goals.
She noted that there is no doubt about what young people can contribute to national progress if they are given “a little push” in the right direction.
Professor Opoku-Agyemang described Ghanaian youth as highly innovative, energetic, and resourceful, adding that she firmly believes they have a great deal to offer the country across all sectors of the economy. She, however, expressed concern that discussions about youth development often overlook girls, creating an imbalance in policy focus and opportunities.
She commended the Ministry of Youth Development and Empowerment for making deliberate efforts to address gender disparities by ensuring that young girls are consciously included in youth-focused programmes and interventions.
The Vice President further emphasized that youth development is a cross-cutting issue, noting that young people are present in every sector including education, health, security, industry, and agriculture. She therefore urged the ministry to strengthen collaboration with other ministries, departments, and agencies to maximize impact and reach.
While acknowledging that the broad scope of youth engagement makes the ministry’s work more challenging, Professor Opoku-Agyemang said it also makes it more fulfilling, as it provides an opportunity to reach young people in every community and corner of the country.
She reiterated the government’s commitment to empowering the youth as a key driver of national development, urging all stakeholders to continue working together to unlock the full potential of Ghana’s young population.
Story by: George Osei-Akoto Addae (Teacher Kojo) #ahotoronline.com/oseiakotor1@gmail.com