The National Youth Authority (NYA) has disclosed that President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo is expected to declare 2024 as the “Year of Youth”, reflecting the continued commitment of his government and the country to nurturing the potential and dreams of the younger generation.
A Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the NYA in charge of programmes and operations, Nelson Owusu Ansah, on behalf of the NYA CEO, Pius Enam Hadzide, said this during the launch of the International Volunteers Day Celebration 2023 yesterday. The event will run from the 5th to the 9th of December.
He said the celebration would enable young people to actively participate in diverse volunteer activities, ranging from tree planting, clean-up exercise, health education programmes, youth mentorship programmes, blood donation drives, among others, echoing the theme of “Together we Volunteer”.
Volunteerism
He stressed that volunteerism is not just an action but a philosophy and way of life. He said by engaging in community service, the youth contribute not only to community development but also embark on a personal journey of self-discovery and growth.
“Through their actions, they affirm the transformative potential they hold in their hands, shaping not just their futures but the destiny of our entire nation,” he stated.
The Deputy CEO also disclosed that the Authority had incorporated collaborative brainstorming forums to bring representatives from various volunteering institutions, fostering a diverse and dynamic environment for idea exchange.
He believes that by sharing experiences and successes, it would create a more coordinated and effective approach to addressing community needs.
He expressed the hope that it would increase awareness and understanding of the importance of volunteerism among Ghanaian youth, enhance community development, and generate innovative ideas for future volunteerism initiatives.
NYA @50
He also announced that the National Youth Authority is gearing up for its Golden Jubilee in 2024, marking 50 years of assiduous effort at ensuring the general welfare of young people in Ghana.
He further invited creative minds nationwide to participate in two exciting competitions, as part of preparations rewards the celebrations.
These are “The Logo Design Challenge” which encourages individuals to unleash their artistic flair and create a captivating logo that embodies the spirit of the “Year of Youth” and the NYA@50 celebrations.
“Simultaneously, the Theme Song Composition Challenge invites participants to let their musical talents shine by composing a theme song that captures the essence of NYA’s 50th anniversary and the Year of Youth celebrations,” he announced.
He noted that the competition is open to all individuals between the ages of 15 and 35, and submissions for both challenges be sent to yearofyouth@nya.gov.gh by December 15, 2023, and January 15, 2024, respectively.
He also urged Ghanaians, particularly the youth to carry the torch of service, illuminating the path of progress, compassion and unity.
Nelson Owusu Ansah, NYA Deputy CEO in charge of programmes and operations
