Ghana’s future depends on disciplined young people – Dr. Apaak

Deputy Minister for Education, Clement Abas Apaak, has called on young people in Ghana to reject hooliganism, violence, and substance abuse, stressing that the future of the country depends on disciplined and responsible youth.

Speaking at the Pre-African Union Day National Cadet Youth Wreath-Laying Ceremony in Accra, Dr. Apaak said the National Cadet Corps continues to play a crucial role in shaping patriotic and disciplined young citizens.

He urged the youth to embrace honesty, humility, and respect in their daily lives.

“I therefore want to charge our young people today to be truthful with one another, be honest in your dealings, and do so with humility and respect,” he stated.

The Deputy Minister warned that growing indiscipline among young people threatens national development and called for a collective effort to eradicate that trend.

“Hooliganism must stop. Violence must stop. Substance abuse must stop. Indiscipline in our schools and communities must stop,” he advocated.

“The future of Ghana cannot be built on disorder. It must be built on discipline, respect, hard work, honesty, and service,” he stretched.

Dr. Apaak commended the National Cadet Corps for promoting leadership and patriotism among the youth.

“The National Cadet Corps has become an important institution for shaping disciplined, responsible, and patriotic young citizens,” he stated.

The Deputy Minister also urged the leadership of the Cadet Corps to prioritize gender inclusion by encouraging more young women to take up leadership positions within the organization.

“Our girls must be empowered to lead and serve at every level,” he said.

Dr. Apaak praised the Cadet Corps for mobilizing young people annually for national events and maintaining a membership of more than 76,000 cadets in basic, secondary, and tertiary institutions in the country.

“You have become one of the most organized and dependable youth bodies in Ghana,” he noted.

He concluded by encouraging cadets to carry themselves with integrity and patriotism.

“To the cadets gathered here today, I say, you are the future. Carry yourselves with discipline, integrity, and pride. Serve your country with honour,” he added.

The National Cadet Youth Wreath-Laying Ceremony is a solemn event where young cadet students honor fallen heroes, veterans, and national leaders by laying wreaths at war memorials or monuments.