Empower, Don’t Judge – NYA Deputy CEO to Youth Workers

The Deputy CEO of the National Youth Authority (NYA), Mr. Jacob Adongo Atule, has urged youth workers to go beyond judgment and walk with young people, especially those battling drug addiction. Speaking at the Global Youth Workers Conference 2025 in Accra, he called for a shift in approach—one that treats drug users with dignity while addressing the root causes of substance abuse, including the rising use of “RED.”

Mr. Atule said youth work must evolve beyond traditional trades and prepare young people for emerging sectors like AI, digital marketing, and renewable energy. He emphasized that youth workers should not think for young people but create space for them to lead.

He also highlighted NYA's role in empowering youth through policies and platforms such as the Youth Parliament and National Volunteer Programme, calling on all stakeholders to keep investing in the capacity of youth workers to drive meaningful change.