NYA is Dedicated to Supporting and Empowering the Youth - DCEO

The Deputy CEO responsible for Programs and Operations of the National Youth Authority, (NYA) Nelson Owusu Ansah has observed that the NYA is dedicated to supporting and empowering the youth to drive positive change within their communities.

He made these remarks at a Youth Dialogue session on the National Youth Policy in the eastern region, Koforidua. The event, organised by NYA in partnership with Star—Ghana Foundation, brought together a diverse group of young people from across the region, providing a platform for the youth to gain a deeper understanding of their roles, rights, and responsibilities in the context of national development.

In his address, the Deputy CEO noted that Ghana is a predominantly youthful nation and cannot progress without the active participation of its young people. He mentioned that the national youth policy offers young people a platform to influence and improve the conditions that shape their lives and prospects.

“Ghana is a very youthful country and you cannot do anything meaningful without the meaningful involvement of the young people. By engaging with the National Youth Policy, you (the youth) can help mold the conditions under which you live, work, and thrive.”

For her part, the Eastern Regional Director of NYA, Evelyn Enyonam Lotsu, noted that the National Youth Policy serves as a strategic tool for addressing the pressing challenges faced by youth. She emphasized the importance of youth engagement in addressing societal challenges such as unemployment and inequality through active participation in the policy's implementation.

“The youth are not just the future, they are the present. The National Youth Policy serves as a framework designed to address the pressing needs of young people while enabling their active participation in the decision-making and development process.”

The Portfolio Manager responsible for Rights to Services at STAR-Ghana Foundation, Raymond Danso, expressed concern about the limited participation of young people in policy formulation and decision-making. He emphasized the importance of fostering inclusive development that actively involves and creates opportunities for youth engagement.