Choose Dialogue Over Violence – NYA CEO

Dignitaries, participants in a group photograph

The Chief Executive Officer of the National Youth Authority (NYA), Osman Ayariga, Esq., has disclosed that Ghana and countries across the globe need clear plans to address the issues affecting young people, peace and security.

Speaking at the National Consultation on the Development of Ghana’s Youth, Peace and Security (YPS) National Action Plan, he said the country has witnessed worrying signs when young people are caught up in gang violence, when disagreements among students turn into clashes, and when misinformation spreads online and heightens tensions in communities.

He said the National Youth Policy recognises their role in conflict prevention and peacebuilding, and the Action Plan gives Ghana the opportunity to put that commitment into practice by agreeing on what needs to be done, who will take responsibility, and how young people will track progress.

Through the Ministry of Youth Development and Empowerment, the NYA and other relevant institutions, government will continue to roll out interventions that support youth participation, expand opportunities for young people and strengthen their role in peacebuilding.

He said structures such as the Youth Parliament and the Ghana Youth Federation can help carry young people’s concerns into public decision-making and give institutions a way to report back on what they have done.

Mr. Ayariga disclosed that consultations have been held across all 16 regions, with contributions also received through online surveys, written submissions and targeted engagements with young people with disabilities and refugee youth.

The Ministry of Youth Development and Empowerment says young people must be treated as partners in peacebuilding, not merely as people to be protected or managed.

Minister for Youth Development and Empowerment, George Opare Addo, Esq., said peace and security are not the responsibility of government and security institutions alone.

He stated that, “they require the collective effort of all of us, particularly young people, who have an important role to play in shaping the kind of society we want to live in.”

“While young people face real challenges including unemployment, poverty, limited opportunities and social exclusion, they can also contribute meaningfully to preventing conflict, promoting tolerance, resolving disputes and building peaceful communities,” he added.

The Commandant of the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre (KAIPTC), Air Vice Marshal David Anetey Akrong, stated that Ghana’s Youth, Peace and Security agenda is particularly relevant despite the country’s progress in democratic governance and peaceful coexistence.

He said challenges such as chieftaincy and land disputes, intercommunal tensions, political violence and the threat of violent extremism continue to affect communities.

“Young people are often among those affected by these challenges. However, they also possess enormous potential to promote dialogue, prevent conflict and strengthen social cohesion,” he said.

“We must therefore recognise them not merely as beneficiaries of peace and security interventions, but as active partners and leaders in building sustainable peace,” he added.

By Prince Fiifi Yorke

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