Mahama calls on youth to reject drug abuse and focus on skills development
President John Dramani Mahama has urged Ghanaian youth to stay away from drug abuse and channel their energies into education, skills development, entrepreneurship and productive ventures that will contribute to national development.
Speaking during the Eid-ul-Adha celebration at the Black Star Square in Accra, President Mahama said the future of the country depends largely on disciplined, responsible and hardworking young people.
“I especially encourage our young people to remain disciplined, law-abiding, respectful and responsible citizens,” he stated.
The President cautioned the youth against drug addiction and other negative behaviours that could destroy their future and affect national progress.
“I urge you to avoid drug addiction. Our nation needs young people who are focused on education, skills, hard work, entrepreneurship and service to humanity,” he added.
President Mahama said his administration remains committed to creating opportunities for young people through job creation and skills training initiatives aimed at improving livelihoods and reducing unemployment.
According to him, the government’s 24-hour economy policy, apprenticeship programmes and industrial transformation agenda are designed to provide sustainable employment opportunities for the youth.
“Our focus remains on creating jobs, supporting local enterprises, expanding opportunities for young people and improving living conditions for ordinary Ghanaians,” he noted.
The President also highlighted ongoing efforts to improve conditions in Zongo communities across the country through infrastructure development, education and economic empowerment initiatives.
He disclosed that the government, through the Youth Employment Agency (YEA), had recruited 6,000 Arabic teachers to support Islamic education while creating employment opportunities for young people.
President Mahama revealed that all the recruited teachers had been fully paid.
“Government does not owe them one cedi. We have paid them up to date,” he said, commending the Chief Executive Officer of the YEA, Malik Basintale, for ensuring the smooth implementation of the programme.
He further announced plans by the government to expand the recruitment of Arabic teachers in the coming years.
The President also disclosed that new community day senior high schools would be constructed in densely populated urban and Zongo communities to improve access to secondary education.
President Mahama encouraged the youth to take advantage of government initiatives and remain committed to values of peace, tolerance, discipline and national unity.
