The President of the Young Commons Forum (YCF), John Noble, has declared that the launch of the University of Cape Coast chapter marks the beginning of a new youth-driven movement aimed at shaping ethical and informed leadership in Ghana.
Delivering his inaugral address at the YCF UCC Summit, held at the School of Graduate Studies Conference Hall of the University of Cape Coast on Saturday, February 21, 2026, Noble said the forum was founded on a “simple but powerful belief” that young people must not only discuss leadership but understand, shape, and practice it.
The event was graced by the Minority Leader of Parliament, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, alongside distinguished lecturers, invited guests, student leaders, and hundreds of students.
“Today is not just the launch of a forum. Today is the beginning of a movement,” Noble declared.
According to him, the Young Commons Forum seeks to bridge the gap between academic theory and real-world governance. While students study political science, law, economics, education and business in lecture halls, he stressed the need to understand how decisions are made, how policies are shaped, and how leadership functions in practice.
He urged the youth to reject corruption, resist division, and demand accountability, noting that democracy thrives not on silence but on active and informed participation.
“Democracy does not survive on silence. It survives when young people ask questions, seek truth, and stand for integrity,” he stated.
Noble outlined practical steps for promoting accountability, including staying informed before speaking, backing opinions with data, asking constructive questions, supporting investigative journalism, engaging leaders calmly and responsibly, and using social media wisely. He emphasized that young people must lead by example.
“We cannot demand accountability from leaders while we misuse student funds and avoid responsibility,” he cautioned, urging peaceful engagement and the promotion of national unity.
Touching on the power of digital platforms, the YCF President described 21st-century youth as uniquely positioned due to access to social media and digital tools. However, he warned against reducing these platforms to spaces for insults and misinformation.
“Social media should not just be a space for trends and insults, but a tool for civic responsibility,” he said, encouraging students to share verified information, simplify policies for public understanding, ask respectful questions, and promote transparency. “In everything you do, remember the media never forgets,” he added.
Noble further underscored that leadership is defined not by position but by character, service, and accountability. Referencing the consistent call by Hon. Afenyo-Markin for youth preparation, he stressed that leadership readiness begins now — through discipline, integrity, and responsible civic engagement.
“Growing up, we were told we are future leaders. That future is now,” he declared.
He announced that the Young Commons Forum will organize policy dialogues, mentorship sessions, and leadership engagements to create platforms for interaction between students, policymakers, academics and professionals.
Commending the presence of student leaders from the SRC, student parliament, hall executives, and various associations, Noble said their participation signaled that UCC students are ready to think deeply, engage constructively, and lead responsibly.
He also acknowledged the crucial role of lecturers and mentors in guiding young leaders beyond motivation toward meaningful growth.
“This is our forum. Not for a day. Not for a semester. But for the eternity,” he said, describing the launch as the beginning of a new chapter where UCC students would be both academically excellent and civically conscious.
He further called for unity and national service, urging students to join the movement in shaping the future of Ghana.
“The Young Commons Forum is here to stay. Join us in shaping the future of mother Ghana,” he said.
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