Omanghana
The Chief Executive Officer of the National Youth Authority, Osman Abdulai Ayariga, has challenged young Ghanaians to move beyond passive criticism and use digital technology to create practical solutions to the country’s challenges.
Speaking at the opening of the 2026 National Youth Conference at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology in Kumasi, Ayariga said Ghana’s transformation would depend significantly on the creativity, discipline and active participation of its young population.
The flagship conference was held under the theme, “Rebuilding Values, Inspiring Patriotism: Empowering the Youth in the Digital Age.”
Ayariga observed that smartphones and other digital tools have given young people unprecedented access to information, international networks and economic opportunities. He encouraged participants to use that access to develop businesses, acquire skills and contribute meaningfully to national development.
“Don’t use your phone only to watch other people build—use it to build. Don’t only scroll—create. Don’t only complain—contribute,” he told the gathering.
He explained that the digital age has reduced many of the traditional barriers to entrepreneurship and innovation. With adequate preparation, he said, young people can transform creative ideas into scalable enterprises and reach customers beyond Ghana’s borders.
The NYA Chief Executive, however, cautioned that access to technology must be accompanied by responsibility. He warned that digital influence without integrity, discipline and respect could become destructive both online and in society.
Ayariga therefore urged young citizens to uphold strong moral values while using digital platforms. He said technological competence alone would not produce lasting progress unless it was supported by patriotism, accountability and a willingness to serve others.
He also reminded participants that every generation faces distinct challenges. Although today’s youth must contend with unemployment, economic pressure and rapid technological change, they also possess tools and opportunities that were unavailable to previous generations.
The conference forms part of Ghana’s 2026 National Youth Month celebrations, being organized by the National Youth Authority in collaboration with the Ministry of Youth Development and Empowerment, led by Minister George Opare Addo.
Activities scheduled for the month include a nationwide community cleanup exercise organized with the Ministry of Local Government.
The program also features leadership development sessions, technology-focused entrepreneurship seminars and technical workshops. The campus-based activities at KNUST were scheduled to run from August 10 to August 12.
An inter-agency football tournament is expected to take place on August 21. The competition will bring together state institutions, media organizations and digital influencers to encourage networking and cooperation.
Through the month-long program, the NYA intends to promote voluntary service, civic responsibility, entrepreneurship and meaningful youth participation in Ghana’s development.
Ayariga urged participants to leave the conference prepared to turn their knowledge and ideas into action, stressing that young people must become builders of the country’s future rather than spectators of its problems.
Source: Omanghana
