The Youth Dialogue Series, held as part of the ‘Youth on Board’ initiative by YOTA (Youth Opportunity and Transformation in Africa) and its implementing partner 100% for the Children, took center stage on 4th October, 2024 at the Damongo Community Centre. The event brought together key stakeholders, including the Municipal Education Director, the planning and budgets officers from the Municipal assembly, traditional leaders, assembly members, a Rep from the National Youth Authority, teachers, youth representatives, students and the media, to discuss the future of education and youth development in Ghana.
In his opening remarks, the vice president of the Voice of Youth Coalition – Damongo chapter, Mr. John Lipoyema Takorah highlighted the importance of youth participation in national dialogue. “This platform served as an invaluable opportunity for relevant stakeholders to engage and discuss the findings and recommendations of the Ghana Youth Barometer Report 2024. Mr. Takorah emphasized that the challenges faced by young Ghanaians were exacerbated by the COVID-19 Pandemic and require urgent attention. “It is not just about highlighting the issues but about finding practical, inclusive solutions that will uplift every young person in Ghana, especially those in rural communities.”
The dialogue was driven by findings from the Ghana Youth Barometer 2024 report, a comprehensive study that surveyed the perceptions of Ghanaian youth on the current state of education and their readiness for the future.
The report reveals that a majority of youth feel that the education system is overly theoretical, lacking practical skills necessary for employment in today’s competitive job market. “We need an education system that prepares us for the challenges of the real world, not just one that focuses on passing exams,” said one participant during a discussion session.
The Vice President of the Voices of Youth Coalition in Damongo, who facilitated the session, shared, “The Youth Barometer highlights the urgent need for policy makers to adapt the curriculum to meet the needs of Ghana’s evolving socio-economic landscape.”
He continued by stressing the importance of engaging youth in decision-making processes, particularly in areas that directly impact their futures.
The Municipal Education Director for West Gonja Mr. Issahaku Iddisah, in his keynote address, commended the initiative and reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting youth development. “Our young people are the future of Ghana, and the Ghana Education service will continue to invest in their education, skills training, and overall well-being,” he stated.
In line with this, several key recommendations were proposed by the participants, including the incorporation of vocational training into secondary school curricula, increased investment in teacher training, and the creation of more avenues for youth entrepreneurship.
The dialogue concluded with a call to action for local leaders and educational authorities to work closely with youth groups in addressing these critical issues, also for chief to take ownership on some educational institutions
As the event came to a close, Tolodompewura Abdulai Ahmed Monor underscored the significance of such forums. “This is not just a conversation. This is the beginning of change. Our youth are eager, ready, and equipped to lead, and it’s time we listen to them.”
The Youth Dialogue Series continues its journey across various municipalities in Ghana, ensuring that youth voices from every corner of Ghana are heard.
Source: Gogu Edwin
