MYDE Holds Maiden Edition of the State of the Youth Address (SOYA)

The Ministry of Youth Development and Empowerment (MYDE) has held the maiden edition of the State of the Youth Address (SOYA) at the Ministry of Labour, Jobs, and Employment. The event served as a platform to share insights on the youth ecosystem and to host a panel discussion on youth-related issues aimed at enhancing global competitiveness and development.

Addressing the gathering, the Minister for Youth Development and Empowerment, Hon. George Opare Addo, emphasized that the youth form the foundation of a strong and progressive society. He noted that the State of the Youth Address seeks to initiate meaningful conversations that will inspire, empower, and equip young people to contribute effectively to national development.

Hon. Opare Addo highlighted five strategic pillars underpinning the Ministry’s youth development policies:

1. Youth Health and Wellbeing

2. Education and Skills Development

3. Economic Empowerment

4. Civic Engagement and Community Participation

5. Personal Development and Leadership

Expounding on these pillars, the Minister stated that promoting youth health remains a national priority. He identified substance abuse as a growing threat to youth development, noting that access to drugs among young people is alarmingly easy. Peer pressure, social influence, and the desire for belonging, he said, are major contributors to this issue. He called for national intervention, stakeholder collaboration, and professional counseling to combat the menace.

Hon. Opare Addo also expressed concern about the increasing rate of road accidents involving young people, particularly young males. Citing research from the University of Ghana, he underscored the need for stricter enforcement of helmet regulations and other road safety measures.

On Civic Engagement, the Minister revealed that nearly half of Ghanaian youth actively participate in civic responsibilities. He encouraged young people to embrace volunteerism as a means of contributing to national progress.

Speaking on Economic Empowerment, Hon. Opare Addo noted that economic pressure often limits youth participation in nation-building. He stressed the importance of equal opportunities and called for greater investment in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), describing it as a vital sector for job creation. He further urged development partners to collaborate closely with the Ministry to ensure that youth-focused programs address the most critical challenges rather than operating in isolation.

The event concluded with an engaging panel discussion that explored key issues such as drug abuse, youth inclusion, civic participation, apprenticeship, youth employment, and academia. Participants exchanged ideas and proposed solutions aimed at improving the welfare and prospects of the Ghanaian youth.