Students must shape politics, not to be shaped by it – NHIA Deputy CEO tells NUGS

Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), Anatu Anne Seidu Bogobiri, has urged Ghanaian students to take an active role in shaping national politics and governance rather than remaining passive observers.

Speaking at the 59th National Union of Ghana Students (NUGS) Congress on Tuesday, August 26, 2026, Madam Bogobiri said students have a critical responsibility in influencing decisions that affect their education, health, employment prospects and future.

Addressing delegates on the theme, “The Role of Students in Shaping National Politics,” she challenged young people to move beyond the traditional question of whether students should engage in politics.

“The question we often ask is: ‘Should students do politics?’ But to me, I would prefer we frame the question this way: ‘Will students shape politics, or will politics shape students?’” she said.

She described her position as a “soft radical” one, explaining that while she believes in dialogue, ideas and service, she also believes students must stop waiting for permission to lead.

“For too long, we have been told, ‘Finish school first. Politics later.’ But later is now,” she stated.

She noted that decisions taken by political leaders today will directly affect the opportunities available to students tomorrow, citing employment, healthcare and democratic governance as examples.

She highlighted recent health sector interventions, including the uncapping of the National Health Insurance Fund and the expansion of healthcare support programmes under the Mahama administration.

According to her, these initiatives are aimed at improving access to healthcare and protecting vulnerable citizens.
Madam Bogobiri called on NUGS members to become informed patriots by following national issues, scrutinising public policies and holding leaders accountable.

“Patriotism is monitoring national discourse. Patriotism is knowing what your MP voted for. Patriotism is asking how a policy helps the ordinary Ghanaian student,” she said.

She further urged students to preserve Ghana’s tradition of intellectual debate and critical thinking, warning against blindly accepting information circulated on social media.

“We must fact-check and conclude on the side of truth. Do not let social media think for you,” she advised.

The NHIA official also encouraged NUGS to continue serving as the conscience of the nation by speaking truth to power and assessing policies based on national interest rather than partisan considerations.

“Challenge bad policy. Applaud good policy. Whether it comes from the NDC, NPP or any other party, remember: country first, party second,” she said.

Madam Bogobiri further encouraged students to prepare themselves for future leadership roles by participating in student governance, youth political activities and community service.

“Do not just protest from outside. Prepare to govern from inside,” she urged.

She made a special appeal to female students to pursue leadership positions and compete for decision-making roles based on merit and competence.

“Ghana needs you not as cheerleaders on the margins, but as captains at the centre,” she said.

She concluded by calling on students to use their voices and talents in service of the country.

“Ghana is asking for your voice. Let history record that when Ghana needed young people to rise, the students of NUGS answered the call,” she stated.