Flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and former Vice President of Ghana, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, has called for greater opportunities for young Ghanaians, stressing the need to create an environment where the youth can pursue their ambitions with confidence and dignity.
In a message to mark International Youth Day, Dr Bawumia reflected on his interactions with young people across the country, noting that although their circumstances may differ, they share common aspirations for a better future.
He identified students, artisans, young professionals, entrepreneurs, farmers and unemployed young people as among those striving to build meaningful lives and contribute to Ghana’s development.
“On this International Youth Day, I think of the many young Ghanaians I meet across the country. Students, artisans, young professionals, entrepreneurs, farmers and those still searching for opportunities,” he said.
According to the former Vice President, a common desire among Ghana’s youth is to secure decent employment, establish sustainable businesses, live with dignity and have confidence in their future.
He, however, acknowledged the difficulties confronting many young people, particularly in accessing jobs and starting or sustaining businesses.
“The circumstances of our youth may be different, but the aspirations are often the same. To find decent jobs, build something of their own, live with dignity and look to the future with confidence,” Dr Bawumia stated.
He noted that these aspirations had been tested by economic and social challenges, with many young people struggling to find employment while entrepreneurs face high costs associated with establishing and maintaining businesses.
“I know these hopes have been tested. Jobs are not easy to find, the cost of starting and sustaining a business is high, and too many young people feel uncertain about what lies ahead,” he said.
Despite these challenges, Dr Bawumia expressed optimism about the potential of Ghana’s youth, describing their talent, determination and ambition as among the country’s greatest strengths.
He argued that the responsibility of policymakers and leaders is to ensure that opportunities available to young people match their aspirations and potential.
“But I remain convinced that Ghana’s greatest strength is the talent and determination of our young people. Our responsibility is to make sure opportunity keeps pace with their ambition,” he said.
Dr Bawumia’s message comes as Ghana joins countries around the world to commemorate International Youth Day, an occasion dedicated to highlighting issues affecting young people and promoting their participation in national development.
He emphasised the shared aspirations of Ghanaian youth, regardless of their different backgrounds, and expressed confidence in their ability to play a central role in shaping the country’s future if provided with the right opportunities.
“Different contexts, common aspirations and a shared belief that Ghana can be a place where young people build the future they want,” he maintained.
He subsequently extended his best wishes to young Ghanaians as the country marked International Youth Day.
By 1960news.com
