As Ghanaian Youth joins others in the Continent to celebrate International Youth Day today, Thursday, 12th August 2021, the Organizing Secretary of the Catholic Youth Organization (C.Y.O) in the Asamankese Deanery of the Diocese of Koforidua, Crusader Mensah Atakora David has called on Government as matter of urgency to come out with National Youth Policy to address challenges facing the Youth.
He said the Government should accept the proposal that the essence of the National Youth Policy is contained in the Directive Principles of State Policy in the Constitution.
Crusader Mensah Atakora noted that the State shall take measures including affirmative action programs; to ensure that the Youth access relevant education and training; have opportunities to associate, be represented, and participate in political, social, economic, and other spheres of life; access employment; and are protected from harmful cultural practices and exploitation.
The theme of International Youth Day 2021, “Transforming Food Systems: Youth Innovation for Human and Planetary Health”, highlights the success of such a global effort that will not be achieved without the meaningful participation of young people.
The Catholic Youth leader urged the Government to address the lack of employment opportunities;
Failure to succeed in the education system;
Family problems;
Substance abuse;
Pressures of materialism;
Lack of affordable housing and others affecting the Youth
He called for Building up the capacity of youth to be able to make their own decisions on health and to take responsibility for health as COVID-19 continues to spread in the World and noted that youth organizations and community groups will be essential to ensure that trustworthy public health information is disseminated.
Crusader Mensah said other crucial challenges that must also be addressed are poverty reduction; social inclusion; health care; biodiversity conservation; and climate change mitigation.
Moreover, he congratulates d Ghanaian Youth for their support to Nation building and called on members of the C.Y.O to explore their talents and knowledge in the church and the Country.
