Ghana marks International Youth Day with call to empower young people

The Ministry of Youth Development and Empowerment has joined the global community in celebrating International Youth Day, highlighting the essential role of young people in shaping Ghana’s future.

This year’s commemoration, held under the global theme, “Local Youth Actions for the SDGs and Beyond,” and Ghana’s national theme, “Igniting Potential, Inspiring Change,” seeks to inspire, equip, and empower the youth to lead change in health, education, skills development, and civic participation.

In a statement signed by the Minister of Youth Development and Empowerment, George Opare Addo, he commended Ghana’s young people for their “energy, innovation, and determination,” noting that they are not just envisioning the future, but actively building it today.

The month-long celebrations will feature youth-led programmes aimed at improving health and well-being, advancing training and re-skilling for economic empowerment, boosting civic engagements, and enhancing leadership capabilities.

Opare Addo reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment, alongside the private sector, civil society, development partners, and other stakeholders, to invest in platforms and initiatives that empower young Ghanaians to their full potential.

The statement also paid tribute to the young lives lost in recent tragedies, including the military helicopter and road crashes, urging a collective effort to create inclusive opportunities, expand mental health support, and ensure access to quality education.

“Let the youth arise for Ghana, for the nation demands their devotion,” the minister declared.

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International Youth Day is observed annually on August 12 to recognise the contributions of young people worldwide in driving social, economic, and technological change.



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