Let’s train and empower the youth – Cross Fire Ghana Covener

Crossfire Ghana, in partnership with the Tertiary Education Institutions Network (TEIN) of the Ghana Communication Technology University (GCTU), has called on the government to prioritize the training and empowerment of the youth.

This was stated at the successful hosting of the 2025 edition of the Crossfire Leadership and Governance Lecture Series, themed “A Conversation on Resetting the Nation.” The event, held at the Florence Onny Hall on GCTU’s main campus, drew students, youth leaders, and governance advocates into a lively discussion around Ghana’s leadership realities and the need for national transformation.

Governance and public policy analyst and former Minister of State, Dr. Akwasi Opong-Fosu, delivered the keynote address. He called for a national mindset shift, stressing that Ghana’s progress hinges on the strength of its institutions and the collective will of its citizens. He encouraged students and young leaders to take active interest in governance, build their capacity, and hold leadership accountable. Dr. Opong-Fosu also emphasized that youth engagement must go beyond social commentary and translate into informed participation and constructive activism. He urged participants to develop their civic literacy and take advantage of spaces that foster leadership education and policy awareness.

In an interview after the event, lead convener for Crossfire Ghana, Nana Osei Tutu, challenged the youth to invest in themselves through education, skills training, and enterprise. He warned against allowing themselves to be used as tools for violence or political manipulation, adding that development will only be possible if young people remain focused and productive.

“The youth constitute the majority of Ghana’s population. If we do not train, equip, and empower them, we risk compromising the future of this country,” he stated. He further urged the youth to leverage existing government programs and social interventions, particularly in the areas of education and entrepreneurship. He cited policies such as the government’s ‘No Fee Stress’ initiative as opportunities the youth should take seriously to ease financial burdens and pursue growth.

The event prompted engaging discussions and questions from participants, with a call for greater inclusion of young people in leadership development platforms.