A cross section of dignitaries during the programme
The National Youth Authority (NYA), in collaboration with the Ministry of Youth Development and Empowerment, has kick-started the 2025 National Youth Festival with an Islamic Dialogue aimed at engaging youth in discussions on faith and social restoration.
The event, which kicked off on August 1 and will run throughout the month, serves as a platform to encourage Islamic youth to actively participate in national development.
In his opening remarks, Osman Ayariga Esq., CEO of the NYA, outlined a series of key activities planned for this year’s festival.
Highlights include a Youth Dialogue with Religious Leaders, a Nationwide Clean-Up Exercise, a National Youth Conference, a Health Walk Against Substance Abuse, and a Multi-Stakeholder Dialogue. The festival will culminate in the National Youth Carnival.
Minister for Youth Development and Empowerment, George Opare Addo, emphasised that August is dedicated to celebrating Ghanaian youth and inspiring their contributions to national progress.
He showcased several government initiatives launched under President John Dramani Mahama, including the National Apprenticeship Programme, One Million Coders, and the Adwumawura Programme.
These initiatives, he stated, aim to equip young Ghanaians with digital skills, practical job training, and entrepreneurial support.
Opare Addo also called upon Islamic leaders to assist in combating drug abuse among vulnerable youth in disadvantaged communities.
He urged Islamic institutions to utilise their platforms to educate young people about the dangers of substance abuse, and emphasised the importance of supporting the Ministry and NYA’s “Red Means Stop” substance abuse campaign.
Dr. Mohammed Marzuq Abubakar, Personal Assistant to the National Chief Imam, underscored the significance of youth in national development, citing UN statistics that highlight their substantial presence in Ghana’s population.
Dr. Abubakar addressed challenges facing young people, such as indiscipline and the rise of single-parent households.
He encouraged citizens, particularly the youth, to take advantage of Free Senior High School education and to reject drug abuse and violence in favour of peace and personal growth.