The Chief Executive Officer of the National Youth Authority (NYA), Osman Abdulai Ayariga, Esq., says the 2026 National Youth Month offers unprecedented opportunities for learning, innovation and enterprise, but also comes with complex challenges of disinformation, cyber insecurity, cyberbullying and erosion of values.
Speaking at the official launch of the month, Mr. Ayariga said it is within this context that this year’s theme was adopted: “Rebuilding Values, Inspiring Patriotism, Empowering the Youth in the Digital Age.”
“This theme is both urgent and strategic. It affirms that while technology will shape our future, our shared values must remain the foundation upon which that vision is built. Innovation without integrity cannot build a resilient nation. Knowledge without discipline cannot sustain development. And talent without patriotism cannot transform a society,” he said.
He said the mandate of the NYA extends beyond employment creation to the deliberate cultivation of ethical leaders, responsible citizens and young patriots who place national interest above self.
“As we commence this celebration, we call on every young Ghanaian to embody integrity, discipline, civic responsibility, respect and love of country,” he stressed.
Strategic platforms, not ceremonies
Mr. Ayariga said the month-long calendar has been designed to foster dialogue, leadership development, innovation, entrepreneurship, volunteerism, community service, cultural exchange and policy engagement.
Nationwide, young people will be involved in community outreach, volunteer services, engagements with traditional and faith leaders, parliamentary sittings, intergenerational dialogues, exhibitions, conferences and digital platforms, all designed to deepen national consciousness and social cohesion.
He said highlights will be the National Youth Conference and the commemoration of International Youth Day, which will bring together thousands of young people to examine issues shaping their future and explore pathways in innovation, enterprise, leadership and nation-building.
“These are not ceremonial events. They are strategic platforms to reorient mindsets, instill responsible leadership and rekindle commitment to national development,” he noted.
International engagements
Beyond the national calendar, Mr. Ayariga said Ghana is proud to host significant international youth engagements that will further enrich the celebration.
He cited the TICAD Youth Drive under the theme “Youth Agenda 2055: From Passion to Action,” which brings together young people from Ghana, across Africa, Japan and other international partners to strengthen global partnerships and translate youth aspirations into action.
Ghana will also host the latest edition of the Pan-African Youth Parliament on Democracy, a gathering of young leaders promoting civic dialogue, democratic participation and innovative approaches to governance.
“These international engagements further affirm Ghana’s leadership role in youth development and democratic engagement in Africa,” he said.
Calendar of activities
Mr. Ayariga outlined activities deliberately designed to reflect the theme and promote patriotism, leadership, volunteerism and responsible citizenship:
**August 1 – National Volunteer and Community Service Day:** In partnership with the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, a youth-led nationwide cleanup exercise. The national event will be held in the Ablekuma Central Municipality, where the Minister for Local Government is expected to lead cleaning. Activities will include cleanups, tree planting, visits to health facilities, public education and blood donation.
August 2-7 – Engagement with faith and traditional leaders: Engagements with Christian, Muslim and traditional leaders to focus on moral values, civic responsibility and healthy living. Churches and mosques will be encouraged to centre sermons in August on patriotism, discipline and youth development.
August 10-13 – National Youth Conference: To be held at KNUST in Kumasi, climaxing with the commemoration of International Youth Day. The conference will convene policymakers, development practitioners, academia and youth to deliberate on digital transformation, employment and nation-building through panel dialogues, plenaries, workshops, masterclasses, exhibitions and cultural performances.
August 16-19 – National Youth Parliament Sitting: A national mock parliament bringing together youth parliamentarians from across districts to debate national issues. The NYA is engaging Parliament to host the sitting in the main chamber of Parliament House if available.
August 21 – Inter-Agency Football Gala: A football gala among agencies under the Ministry of Youth Development and Empowerment and other youth groups at the Accra Sports Stadium. Media and influencers are invited to register teams. Professional teams will not be permitted.
August 25 – Intergenerational Dialogue: A dialogue connecting older and younger generations, featuring former ministers, diplomats and statesmen sharing experiences and guidance with young people.
Closing – Red Campaign at Independence Square: The month will climax with a campaign against drug abuse and substance misuse at Black Star Square, featuring exhibitions of youth creativity, talent and entrepreneurship, music, cultural performances, motorcycle awareness rides and anti-drug advocacy.
“The message is clear, Ghana’s future cannot be built on addiction. We call on every young Ghanaian to reject substance abuse and champion healthy, responsible living,” Mr. Ayariga said.
He stressed that government remains unwavering in its commitment to youth empowerment through initiatives such as the National Apprenticeship Programme, the Adwumawura Programme and recruitment through the Youth Employment Agency.
“The NYA will continue to serve as a bridge between these opportunities and the young people they are designed to serve. But this national aspiration cannot be realized by government alone. It demands active collaboration of development partners, private sector, civil society, academia, traditional authorities, faith institutions and the media,” he added.
“Together, let us build the Ghana we want. Together, let us reset Ghana.”
By Sampson Kumah Ifeetwube Elvis
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