National Youth Authority Partners iYES 2026 to Inspire Youth Towards Transgenerational Impact

The National Youth Authority has partnered with the International Youth Empowerment Summit 2026 (iYES 2026) to empower and inspire young people to think beyond their generation and create lasting impact. The four-day summit is being held from March 10 to March 13, 2026, at the UPSA Auditorium under the theme “Transgenerational Impact.”

Addressing participants at the summit, the Chief Executive Officer of the National Youth Authority, Osman Ayariga Esq., encouraged young people to develop a mindset that focuses on long-term transformation and legacy. Speaking on economic empowerment, he noted that President John Dramani Mahama established the Ministry of Youth Development and Empowerment to create opportunities and programmes aimed at improving the livelihoods of Ghanaian youth.

He highlighted several initiatives designed to support youth development, including the Adwumawura Programme, the National Apprenticeship Programme, and the One Million Coders Initiative, all of which seek to equip young people with skills, support start-up businesses, and expand opportunities for employment and entrepreneurship.

Mr. Ayariga further urged the youth to carefully plan their future while understanding that meaningful impact takes time. He encouraged young people to move beyond simply seeking jobs and instead focus on building healthy lifestyles and staying away from drug abuse. “Let’s stop red before red stops us,” he cautioned.

Touching on recent campus clashes across the country, Mr. Ayariga expressed concern about increasing violence in inter-school sporting events. He called on students to channel their energy into constructive dialogue and debates that promote national development rather than conflict. He also announced that the National Youth Authority plans to establish clubs in schools nationwide to promote peace and security.

According to him, “Nothing is worth fighting for if it’s not fighting against poverty.” He concluded by calling on  Ambassadors and leaders across the country to help address social challenges affecting young people.

The summit is organised by Brian Amoateng, founder of iYES, in partnership with the National Youth Authority. The International Youth Empowerment Summit has become one of Ghana’s most influential youth development platforms, providing mentorship, practical knowledge, and inspiration to thousands of young people.

The event brings together leaders from governance, business, entrepreneurship, ministry, and the creative industries to share experiences and insights that equip the next generation of leaders to make meaningful contributions to society.