Pius Enam Hadzide, NYA CEO
The 2024 National Youth Conference is poised to be a landmark event, as the Chief Executive Officer of the National Youth Authority (NYA), Pius Enam Hadzide, outlines an ambitious agenda focused on the transformative power of digital technologies and the role of youth in shaping Ghana’s future.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the conference at the Pentecost Convention Centre yesterday, Mr. Hadzide emphasised that the conference would delve into how Ghanaian youth were harnessing digital tools to drive positive change across various sectors.
“Over the next few days, we will explore how you, the youth, are leveraging digital technologies to make a difference,” he stated. He indicated that the conference aimed to also examine how policymakers, educators and industry leaders could foster an environment that supported this innovation.
He mentioned that the programme would feature plenary sessions with distinguished speakers from key ministries, including the Ministry of Youth and Sports, the Ministry of Communication and Digitalization, the Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation, as well as representatives from the United Nations.
He said these sessions would provide insights into the contributions of digital technology to various sectors and discuss strategies to further empower youth.
Thematic areas
The NYA CEO added that breakout sessions would address specific thematic areas such as Youth, Peace, and Security in the digital era. This initiative, he said, aligns with the NYA’s commitment to promoting a culture of non-violence and countering extremism through education and understanding.
Additionally, he indicated that the conference would highlight how digital technologies had enhanced agricultural productivity, in line with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goal 2 of achieving food security and ‘zero hunger’.
According to him, these discussions aim to identify opportunities for digital skill development and entrepreneurship within the agri-tech industry.
He mentioned that a special session would focus on youth participation in decision making, responding to concerns about the exclusion of youth from policymaking and governance.
He stressed that this segment would address barriers to meaningful youth participation in digital spaces and decision-making processes, and develop strategies to bridge the digital divide and empower marginalized youth communities.
He added that the conference would also explore financial inclusion and youth entrepreneurship, emphasizing the role of digital financial services in fostering economic participation and entrepreneurial ventures among young people.
Active
The NYA CEO, therefore, urged participants to actively engage in the sessions, share their insights, and network with other young leaders.
“Each of these sessions is designed to not only inform but to actively engage and inspire action. I implore you to participate wholeheartedly and connect with others who are passionate about creating a better future for Ghana,” he stressed.
“The conversations we start here must extend beyond these walls into our communities, schools, and workplaces,” Mr. Hadzide added.
He expressed deep gratitude to the partners and everyone involved in organizing the event. “Thank you all for your commitment to growth, innovation, and progress,” he added.
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