The author
By: Ebenezer Ayeh
Introduction
Migration in Ghana is often discussed in policy circles and newsrooms through numbers and legality. But for many young people, it begins as a story shared in WhatsApp / Telegram groups, whispered in classrooms, and imagined through TikTok videos. These stories shape aspirations, decisions, and sometimes, heartbreak. This article explores how Ghanaian youth narrate migration dreams, how media and civic education influence those narratives, and what it means for democratic participation and informed decision-making.
“I want to go to Canada because everyone says you get paid in dollars even if you’re just washing dishes,” says Kwame Asiedu, a 19-year-old final year student in Koforidua.
Media Influence and Misinformation
Social media platforms have become informal migration counselors. TikTok influencers promise visa shortcuts and high-paying jobs abroad, while WhatsApp forwards circulate unverified claims about free work permits and scholarships. These narratives often lack nuance and accuracy, yet they spread rapidly among youth with limited access to formal guidance.
- Viral videos promote “migration hacks” without legal grounding
- WhatsApp chain messages falsely claim open borders for African youth
- Some Local radio and Television stations sometimes amplifies sensationalized migration success stories
Civic Education and Counter-Narratives
In response, civic educators and journalists are working to reshape the narrative. Through school programs and community workshops, they provide:
- Accurate information on visa processes and legal pathways
- Cautionary tales from returnees who faced exploitation abroad
- Empowering stories of local success and global engagement
“We don’t want to kill their dreams we want to ground them in reality,” says Daniel Danso, a civic educator in Accra.
Migration as Identity and Aspiration
For many youths, migration is not just about economics it’s about dignity, global belonging, and escape from systemic limitations. These dreams deserve respect, but also responsible framing.
- Migration is tied to identity and future-building
- Media must balance inspiration with information
- Civic spaces should amplify youth voices without romanticizing migration
Policy Implications
Misguided migration decisions can lead to:
- Visa denials and financial loss
- Exploitation in foreign labor markets
- Disillusionment and return without support
Policymakers, educators, and media producers must collaborate to ensure youth have access to accurate, empowering information.
Conclusion
Migration dreams are powerful but they must be matched with truth. Ghanaian youth deserve stories that honor their aspirations while guiding them toward informed choices. Journalism, civic education, and policy makers must work together to rewrite the migration narrative one that is ethical, inclusive, and grounded in reality.
