The European Union and the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Ghana, yesterday launched the inaugural cohort of the Team Europe Youth Sounding Board (YSB) Ghana.
The initiative aims to empower young change makers to play a crucial role in influencing policies and programmes that affect their lives and communities.
The YSB is a global European initiative aligned with the EU’s commitment to youth empowerment.
“By actively engaging the younger generation, we aim to tackle pressing issues relevant to youth in Ghana, including economic development, education reforms, and social equity. Participants will have the chance to share their perspectives, collaborate on innovative solutions, and influence the policies that will shape the future of their nation,” said Irchad Razaaly, the EU Ambassador to Ghana.
The Team Europe Youth Sounding Board offers young leaders a distinct opportunity to contribute valuable insights guiding EU and Netherlands programmes and policies for Ghanaian youth.
Participants will collaborate with the EU and the Netherland Embassy, development partners, and peer groups to address key issues and participate in a transformative process.
Over two years, the YSB members would connect with the EU and the Netherlands Embassy, advice on policies from a youth perspective, advocate for inclusive development, and engage local and international stakeholders.
This initiative demonstrates Team Europe’s commitment to enhancing youth participation in fostering inclusive, innovative, and sustainable development solutions.
Applications opened on January 21, 2025 until February 20, 2025. Young Ghanaians between 18 and 32 years are eligible to apply.
The selection committee would employ inclusivity to ensure the board is representative.
Furthermore, candidates are expected to demonstrate active community engagement and leadership skills.
The evaluation process would prioritise those who show a commitment to driving positive change and the ability to collaborate with others.
This is a unique opportunity for young leaders eager to inspire change and make a significant impact by joining the Youth Sounding Board Ghana.
The Netherlands Ambassador to Ghana, Jeroen Verheul, said the Netherlands and the EU would work together to support youth through complementary approaches.
“The EU has a strong development programme, while the Netherlands focuses on investment, trade and private sector development. Together, we can create opportunities for youth in both development programmes and private sector initiatives,” he said.
Mr Verheul cited the Netherlands’ Orange Corners Accelerator Programme as an example, which supported young entrepreneurs in developing their businesses.
“This initiative from the Netherlands complements the EU programmes and strengthens the broader European agenda,” he said.
He stated that youth participation would be integrated into both development and private sector policies.
Again, the Netherlands Ambassador also emphasised the importance of youth in shaping policies that impact their future.
“It’s not only social media you can use to influence; the Youth Sounding Board provides a platform to influence EU and Netherlands policies, and through us, hopefully, Ghana’s government policies as well,” he stated.
BY MALIK SULLEMANA
