The Chief Executive Officer of the National Youth Authority (NYA), Osman Ayariga, Esq., has urged young Ghanaians to develop entrepreneurial mindsets and acquire market-relevant skills to create opportunities for themselves and contribute to national development.
Addressing participants during activities marking World Youth Skills Day 2026, Mr. Ayariga said Ghana’s future depends on how effectively the country equips its young population with the skills needed for the changing labour market.
He emphasised that government alone cannot provide employment opportunities for every young person, making entrepreneurship, innovation, and skills development essential components of youth empowerment.
“Government cannot employ every young person. We must empower young people to become job creators instead of only job seekers,” he said.
The NYA CEO outlined several interventions being pursued by the Authority to support youth development, including the National Apprenticeship Programme, Youth Resource Centres, and the Youth Industrial Parks Initiative.
According to him, these initiatives are designed to provide young people with practical training, access to equipment, mentorship, and opportunities to establish sustainable businesses.
Mr. Ayariga said the NYA is also focused on promoting inclusion by ensuring that young women, persons with disabilities, rural youth, and vulnerable groups have access to skills development opportunities.
“No young person should be left behind. Development is only meaningful when opportunities reach everyone,” he stated.
He called on industry players to increase their involvement in youth development by providing internships, apprenticeship opportunities, mentorship, and practical workplace exposure.
The NYA CEO also encouraged parents to recognise the value of technical and vocational careers and support young people to pursue talents that can lead to meaningful livelihoods.
He identified digital skills, artificial intelligence literacy, creativity, financial literacy, communication skills, teamwork, and adaptability as some of the key competencies young people need to succeed in the future economy.
Mr. Ayariga urged young Ghanaians to take advantage of available opportunities, remain disciplined, and commit to lifelong learning.
“The future of Ghana will not be built by chance. It will be built by young people who possess the right skills, the right mindset, and the right opportunities,” he said.
He assured that the National Youth Authority would continue collaborating with government, the private sector, and development partners to expand opportunities for Ghana’s youth.
“When we invest in youth skills today, we secure Ghana’s prosperity tomorrow,” Mr. Ayariga added.
