The Chief Executive Officer of the National Youth Authority (NYA), Osman Ayariga Esq., has called on young people to embrace their role as drivers of national and global development, declaring that “their power is real and their time is now.”
He made the appeal during Ghana’s commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the United Nations, held under the theme “Powered by Youth – Building Our Future Together.”
Mr. Ayariga said the theme reflects both a look back at the world’s shared development journey and a call to action for young people to shape the future they envision — one in which they lead and thrive.
He commended the United Nations for its longstanding support to Ghana, particularly in the areas of health, education, and alignment with national development priorities through the UNSDCF. He also recognised the contributions of UN agencies including UNFPA, UNICEF, UNDP, UNESCO, and FAO, whose technical and programmatic support have strengthened the NYA’s mandate.
Highlighting ongoing interventions, the NYA CEO mentioned the development of Youth Resource Centres across the country to drive skills training, innovation, and entrepreneurship. He added that the Ghana Youth Federation will further broaden youth engagement in decision-making processes at all levels.
Mr. Ayariga reaffirmed NYA’s commitment to promoting patriotism, digital literacy, and civic responsibility, in line with the UN’s pursuit of peaceful and inclusive societies. He assured that insights gathered from the dialogue will be translated into concrete action.
Describing the anniversary theme as a “clear call to action,” he stressed that the future is not inherited but built — and young people must stand as its chief architects.
He concluded by urging stakeholders to deepen international cooperation and to support the creation of an actionable, accountable Ghana Compact, crafted with and owned by the youth.
