Kizito here, and there: On youth palaver
Yesterday, August 12, was recognised globally as the United Nations’ World Youth Day, a day set aside to celebrate young people and their contributions to society, including nation-building.
August 12 was globally recognized as the United Nations' Youth Day, a day to celebrate young people and their contributions to society. This year's theme, "Different Contexts, Common Aspirations," prompted reflection on the role of Ghanaian youth in the country's development. Two recent developments highlight contrasting experiences of young people in Ghana.
A youth group was advocating for President John Mahama to serve a third term, while a coalition of nurses and midwives demanded overdue salaries from the Minister of Health. On the surface, these issues appear unrelated, but they both raise questions about young people's place in Ghana's development. The first scenario demonstrates the political value placed on youth, with young people mobilizing their energy and voices around a political cause.
However, the second scenario exposes the challenges many young professionals face, having to advocate for salaries they have already earned. This highlights a troubling contradiction - young people are considered important when political parties need them, but often not important enough to receive timely attention when they need jobs, decent pay, affordable housing, quality education, and healthcare.
The unpaid nurses and midwives exemplify this disparity. Despite their professional training and contributions to healthcare, they waited months for payment due to them. This situation emphasizes the need to empower young people with opportunities, resources, and institutional support to build the lives they aspire to. While political participation is a valuable aspect of democracy, it becomes concerning when the political system harnesses youthful energy for partisan objectives without providing young people with a meaningful voice in shaping policies and institutions that affect their future.
The theme of World Youth Day resonates deeply with the reality faced by Ghanaian youth. Regardless of their context, political affiliation, or profession, their aspirations for dignity, opportunity, economic security, and a meaningful stake in the country are remarkably common. The real lesson from this year's theme is that Ghana must move beyond speeches, slogans, and annual celebrations to create a nation where young people can thrive.
Young people are contributing more to national development than currently acknowledged, and it is time to build a Ghana that works for them.
Written by urgent.news from MyJoyOnline Ghana's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
