Teachers Are Walking Role Models to the Youth of This Country – Osman Ayariga

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the National Youth Authority (NYA), Mr. Osman Abdulai Ayariga Esq., has urged trainee teachers to uphold discipline, integrity, and exemplary conduct, emphasizing that teachers are not just educators but walking role models who shape the attitudes of the youth.

Speaking at the 29th Annual Delegates’ Congress of the Teacher Trainees Association of Ghana (TTAG) in Aburi, Mr. Ayariga reminded delegates that their role goes beyond the classroom. “Your life in itself is a living example. You are a walking role model to society and must live up to that expectation,” he said, stressing that young students emulate their teachers both in and outside of the classroom. He bemoaned the growing trend of teachers engaging in inappropriate behavior on social media, which he believes undermines the respect traditionally accorded to the profession.

Mr. Ayariga also highlighted some of NYA’s flagship initiatives, including the newly launched National Apprenticeship Programme (NAP), which seeks to empower thousands of young people through skills training and hands-on mentorship and asked them to take advantage of it. Additionally, he introduced the upcoming Ghana Youth Leadership Fellowship, a program designed to nurture responsible and patriotic youth leaders through structured training and mentorship.

In concluding his address, Mr. Ayariga challenged the teacher trainees to broaden their vision beyond the classroom. “As student leaders, I challenge you not just to think of your future classrooms, but also to envision yourselves as changemakers—leading reform in your schools, communities, and even at the policy level,” he urged. He encouraged them to continue building alliances, sharpening their voices, and never losing sight of their unique role in shaping Ghana’s future.