The Chief Executive Officer of the National Youth Authority (NYA), Osman Ayariga, has called for urgent action to translate youth development policies from paper into tangible impact, stressing that frameworks alone are not enough to change the lives of young Ghanaians.
Speaking at the official launch of the 2025 National Youth Festival on Friday, July 25, Osman Ayariga referenced both the African Youth Charter (2006) and Ghana’s National Youth Policy as essential guides but insisted that the time has come for implementation to take centre stage.
“Our National Youth Policy provides the framework for our commitment to amplifying youth voices in decision-making processes. However, frameworks alone do not create change; action does,” he said.
Mr. Ayariga noted that Ghana’s youth, who make up 38.2% of the population, face persistent challenges including high unemployment, limited access to quality education, and low participation in governance. He argued that without deliberate and sustained efforts to address these challenges, policy documents risk becoming symbolic rather than transformative.
The festival, themed “Igniting Potential; Inspiring Change,” aims to be more than just an annual celebration. It is designed as a national call to move from rhetoric to results; delivering real-world solutions such as entrepreneurship training, skills development, and inclusive engagement.
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As part of the month-long celebration in August 2025, the Authority will roll out activities aimed at addressing youth unemployment, climate change, mental health, and substance abuse, while also promoting civic values and patriotism.
“This is just the beginning. The real work starts now; in the communities, schools, workplaces, and homes where our young people live and dream,” he said.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh
