Minister of Youth Development and Empowerment-designate, George Opare Addo
The Minister of Youth Development and Empowerment-designate, George Opare Addo, has assured Ghanaians of his commitment to inclusivity and youth development, regardless of political, religious, or ethnic backgrounds.
Appearing before Parliament’s Appointments Committee on Wednesday, January 22, 2025, he pledged to prioritise the welfare of Ghana’s youth, while ensuring his ministry remains accessible to everyone.
“My doors are open for anybody, irrespective of political party, creed, religion or ethnicity. I am here to serve the good people of Ghana. And as national youth organizer of the NDC, that will not limit me.
“And I want to assure this committee that my doors will be open to every young person who wants to see some development and improvement in his life,” he noted.
He also elaborated on Ghana’s broader age range for the youth, explaining that it aligns with the country’s unique socioeconomic conditions.
“Our situation may be slightly different from some of the developed countries. While in other jurisdictions a 15 or 16-year-old may be independent, our economic conditions here are not the same. I believe our policymakers settled on the 15 to 35 brackets because it reflects the challenges young people face in our context. Unless circumstances demand otherwise, this framework suits our needs,” he stated.
Responding to questions on the National Democratic Congress (NDC) manifesto promise to create sustainable and decent jobs for the youth through private-sector partnerships, Opare Addo emphasised the importance of collaborations.
“We will outline specific policies and timelines aimed at fostering job creation in sectors where youth can thrive. These partnerships will not only provide employment but also equip young people with the skills necessary to meet the demands of a competitive global market,” he noted.
JKB/AE
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