The Chief Executive Officer of the National Youth Authority (NYA), Osman Ayariga Esq., has called for a renewed national commitment to rebuilding moral values, discipline and patriotism among Ghana’s youth, warning that technological advancement without character poses a serious threat to the country’s future.
Delivering remarks at a National Youth Month programme organised by the Christian Council of Ghana under the theme, “Rebuilding Values, Inspiring Patriotism: Empowering the Youth in the Digital Age,” Mr. Ayariga stressed that while digital innovation has transformed society, the country’s progress ultimately depends on the integrity and character of its young people.
“It is not enough for a generation to be digitally brilliant if it is morally adrift,” he said. “We need young people who are as disciplined and honest as they are skilled.”
The NYA CEO expressed concern over the growing trend of violence and indiscipline in educational institutions, citing recent incidents that have shocked the nation. He referenced the assault on the headmaster of Obuasi Senior High Technical School by students over unverified allegations of ritual practices, noting that the matter remains under police investigation.
“Whatever the truth turns out to be, suspicion never justifies violence, and disagreement never justifies laying hands on another human being,” he stated.
Mr. Ayariga also recalled the assault on a teacher at Kade Senior High Technical School for enforcing examination rules, violent clashes involving students from Obrachire Senior High Technical School and Swedru School of Business during an inter-school competition, as well as an attack involving students of Aggrey Memorial and Adisadel College following a sports festival.
According to him, these incidents point to a worrying decline in the ability of young people to resolve conflicts peacefully.
“Our schools should be building character alongside academic results, not becoming places where fists settle what conversation should,” he said.
Addressing the impact of social media, Mr. Ayariga acknowledged the opportunities digital platforms provide for learning, civic engagement and innovation, but cautioned against their misuse to spread insults, misinformation and disrespect.
“Free speech is a right worth protecting, but it comes with the responsibility to speak truthfully and with basic respect. A stronger democracy is built on honest disagreement and the willingness to listen,” he noted.
He further explained that the National Youth Policy places equal emphasis on citizenship, discipline and integrity alongside education and employment, stressing that patriotism is demonstrated through everyday actions such as obeying the law, rejecting corruption and respecting others.
Mr. Ayariga commended the Christian Council of Ghana for its longstanding role in shaping the moral and spiritual development of generations of Ghanaians through churches, schools and community outreach programmes.
He appealed to religious institutions to intensify efforts to mentor young people by promoting discipline, respect for lawful authority and responsible citizenship through sermons, youth fellowships, Sunday schools and media engagements.
“Government can pass policies, but it is the church and the family that shape conscience, and right now conscience is exactly what needs rebuilding,” he said.
Quoting Proverbs and Hebrews, the NYA CEO underscored the importance of discipline in nurturing responsible future leaders and urged all stakeholders—including government, families, traditional leaders, schools and faith-based organisations—to work together to rebuild the nation’s values.
He reaffirmed the National Youth Authority’s commitment to empowering young people economically and socially but maintained that skills alone are insufficient without integrity.
“Talent without integrity is a liability, not an asset,” Mr. Ayariga remarked.
He called on young Ghanaians to embrace integrity over shortcuts, dialogue over violence, service over self-interest and truth over rumours, describing these values as the foundation of genuine patriotism.
As Ghana commemorates National Youth Month, Mr. Ayariga expressed hope that the observance would inspire a collective recommitment to raising a generation of responsible, ethical and patriotic leaders capable of driving the country’s development.
He concluded by thanking the Christian Council of Ghana for partnering with the National Youth Authority in promoting youth development and nation-building.
“Together, let’s restore what’s been lost and build the Ghana we all still believe is possible,” he said.
