National Youth Conference 2025: From Dialogue to Action — Leaders Inspire Ghanaian Youth to Shape the Future

The 2025 National Youth Conference, held under the theme "Igniting Potential; Inspiring Change" at the Pentecost Convention Centre, brought together key leaders and thousands of young people with a shared vision: empowering Ghana’s youth to take charge of the nation’s future.

In his address, the Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the National Youth Authority (NYA), Mr. Jacob Adongo, urged young Ghanaians to move beyond participation and become active stakeholders in national development. He described the conference as a platform for dialogue, collaboration, and action, encouraging participants to network effectively and shape the future together. He also cautioned against drug abuse, emphasizing that personal discipline is key to unlocking one’s potential. According to him, this year’s theme was carefully selected to explore, empower, and ignite the potential of youth across all sectors of society.

Representing the Central Regional Minister, Chief Mike Dery reaffirmed the government’s commitment to youth development through investments in skills training, agriculture, and leadership empowerment. He encouraged participants to view themselves not just as leaders of tomorrow, but as leaders of today, ready to take bold steps toward national transformation.

Delivering his keynote speech, the Chief Executive Officer of the NYA, Mr. Osman Ayariga, Esq., mentioned that the National Apprenticeship Program is the largest social intervention in Ghana’s history. The program, currently training 10,000 apprentices under the guidance of 4,000 master craftsmen, aims to equip young people with practical, employable skills. He further highlighted the launch of the ‘Red Means Stop’ campaign, an initiative focused on promoting the health and well-being of Ghanaian youth.

During a dialogue session, Mr. Julius Debrah, Chief of Staff, encouraged young participants—particularly students—to remain focused and believe in their potential. He reassured them that President John Dramani Mahama remains deeply committed to youth development, which led to the creation of the Ministry of Youth Development and Empowerment.

The Minister for Youth Development and Empowerment, Hon. George Opare Addo, officially outdoored the interim leadership of the Ghana Youth Federation, a newly established body aimed at providing a structured and unified platform for youth engagement and advocacy. He tasked the interim leadership with ensuring the success and long-term sustainability of the Federation.

The final day of the conference was marked by a series of motivational speeches, interactive sessions, and fun activities, creating a vibrant and inspiring atmosphere for all participants.