Nyp 22

GOVERNMENT OF GHANA
MINISTRY OF YOUTH AND SPORTS

NATIONAL YOUTH AUTHORITY
NATIONAL YOUTH POLICY

(2022-2032)
Theme:
“BENEFIT FOR YOUTH INVOLVE YOUTH:
TOGETHER FOR A PROSPEROUS FUTURE”
National Youth Policy
(2022-2032)
GOVERNMENT OF GHANA

NATIONAL YOUTH AUTHORITY
NATIONAL YOUTH POLICY

(2022-2032)
Theme:
“BENEFIT FOR YOUTH INVOLVE YOUTH:
TOGETHER FOR A PROSPEROUS FUTURE”
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
FOREWORD....................................................................................................................... 6
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT........................................................................................................ 8
ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS..................................................................................... 9
KEY POLICY DEFINITIONS................................................................................................13
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY.....................................................................................................17
CHAPTER ONE.................................................................................................................21
INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND................................................................................21
1.0 Introduction......................................................................................................................... 21
1.2 Background......................................................................................................................... 21
1.2 Rationale............................................................................................................................. 24
1.3 Purpose of the Policy......................................................................................................... 24
1.4 Situational Analysis............................................................................................................ 25
1.4.1 Economic and Financial Empowerment of Young People................................... 25
1.4.1.1 Youth Entrepreneurship and Financial Inclusion..................................... 25
1.4.1.2 Youth Employment and Labour Issues..................................................... 26
1.4.1.3 Hunger and Poverty................................................................................... 27
1.4.1.4 Youth and Agriculture................................................................................ 28
1.4.1.5 Youth Migration and Mobility................................................................... 29
1.4.1.6 Youth and Environmental Sustainability.................................................. 30
1.4.2 Youth Health and Wellbeing................................................................................... 31
1.4.2.1 HIV and AIDS............................................................................................... 31
1.4.2.2 Substance Abuse........................................................................................ 32
1.4.2.3 Mental Health............................................................................................. 33
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1.4.2.4 Sexual and Reproductive Health............................................................... 34
1.4.2.5 Nutrition...................................................................................................... 34
1.4.2.6 Sports, Leisure and Recreation.................................................................. 35
1.4.3 Training and Development..................................................................................... 37
1.4.3.1 Education and Skills Training..................................................................... 37
1.4.3.2 Information and Communications Technology........................................ 39
1.4.4 Youth Participation and Governance..................................................................... 40
1.4.4.1 Active Citizenship and Participation in Governance............................... 40
1.4.4.2 Youth Volunteerism in Ghana................................................................... 42
1.4.4.4 Youth Conflict and Peace-Building............................................................ 43
1.4.5 Cross-Cutting Issues and Youth Development Mainstreaming........................... 44
1.4.5.1 Demographic Dividend and Youth Statistics............................................ 45
1.4.5.2 Vulnerability and Social Inclusion............................................................. 46
1.4.5.3 Social Protection......................................................................................... 48
1.4.5.8 Youth and Crime......................................................................................... 49
1.4.5.9 Culture, Religion and Tourism................................................................... 49
1.4.6 Institutional Framework for Youth Development in Ghana................................ 51
1.4.7 Youth and the Future............................................................................................... 52
1.5 SWOT Analysis.................................................................................................................... 53
1.5.1 SWOT Analysis of Youth Situation in Ghana.......................................................... 54
1.5.2 SWOT Analysis of Youth Interventions................................................................... 56
1.6 Key Policy Issues................................................................................................................ 57
1.7 Scope of the Policy............................................................................................................. 59
1.7 Youth Profile in Ghana....................................................................................................... 60
1.8 Policy Review Process....................................................................................................... 61
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1.9 Content and Structure........................................................................................................ 62
CHAPTER TWO................................................................................................................63
POLICY CONTEXT.............................................................................................................63
2.1 Introduction......................................................................................................................... 63
2.2 Global and National Contexts........................................................................................... 63
2.3 Legislative Frameworks..................................................................................................... 66
2.3.1 Legal Foundation for the National Youth Policy................................................... 69
CHAPTER THREE..............................................................................................................70
POLICY FRAMEWORK......................................................................................................70
3.1 Introduction......................................................................................................................... 70
3.2 Vision................................................................................................................................... 70
3.3 Goal...................................................................................................................................... 70
3.4 Key Objectives.................................................................................................................... 71
3.5 Core Values......................................................................................................................... 72
3.6 Guiding Principles............................................................................................................... 72
3.7 Policy Preconditions........................................................................................................... 74
CHAPTER FOUR...............................................................................................................76
STRATEGIC POLICY ACTIONS

(Strategies to Achieve Key Policy Objectives)..............................................................76
4.1 Introduction......................................................................................................................... 76
CHAPTER FIVE.................................................................................................................85
POLICY IMPLEMENTATION ARRANGEMENTS....................................................................85
5.1 Introduction......................................................................................................................... 85
5.2 Implementation and Coordination................................................................................... 85
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5.3 Institutional Arrangements for Implementation............................................................. 86
5.4 Additional Implementation and Coordination Structures............................................... 97
5.5 Resource Mobilisation........................................................................................................ 98
CHAPTER SIX.................................................................................................................100
MONITORING AND EVALUATION ARRANGEMENT...........................................................100
6.1 Introduction.......................................................................................................................100
6.2 Monitoring and Evaluation..............................................................................................100
6.3 Review Cycle....................................................................................................................101
CHAPTER SEVEN............................................................................................................102
COMMUNICATIONS STRATEGY........................................................................................102
7.1 Introduction.......................................................................................................................102
7.2 Communication Strategy for the Policy.........................................................................102
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FOREWORD
The National Youth Policy is a coordinated framework formulated to guide the
development and implementation of interventions that will build an empowered
youth for national development and their active participation in global affairs.
It places optimum responsibilities on key stakeholders, particularly, the youth
themselves to take advantage of the opportunities created by its implementation.
The government recognises the youth as an important asset in nation-building
and is therefore committed to harnessing their demographic dividend through
increased investment in issues affecting them and sustainable partnership with all
development stakeholders.
The issues that affect youth development in Ghana include economic and financial
exclusion, adverse socio-cultural practices, a mismatch between knowledge
acquired and industry requirements, inaccessibility of education and educational
facilities, minimal skills development, low participation in governance, limited
access to health services and weak development support services, among others.
Nonetheless, the Ghanaian teeming youth have self-creativity and innovation
backed by significant knowledge of Information and Communications Technology.
However, these appear misapplied and usually unprofitable to many.
Over the years, succeeding Governments have embarked on pro-youth
programmes, including Free Senior High School; Science, Technology, Engineering
and Mathematics Programmes, Youth Employment Schemes, massive incentives,
and financial support programmes for youth enterprise development, among others.
It must be emphasised that these programmes are yielding desired dividends but
seem inadequate for addressing the ever-increasing changing situations of the
youth. In order to tackle this phenomenon and chart the path for sustainable youth
development, Government is determined to spearhead and engender sustainable
partnerships with all stakeholders to tap into the creative potentials of the youth.
Thus, the National Youth Policy guides all-inclusive, integrated and coherent youth
development.
The policy which spans from 2022 - 2032 is expected to be implemented by
all stakeholders in the public and private sectors, state and non-state actors,
organisations, and individuals. The Government of Ghana, through the Ministry of
Youth and Sports, will work assiduously with stakeholders to ensure that components
of the policy are effectively and efficiently implemented and coordinated.
It is my firm belief that the zeal, passion, and commitment exhibited by
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stakeholders in the process of developing this policy will equally be manifested in

the implementation. Government, on its part, will remain resolute, and focused and
will provide the necessary leadership and direction, to ensure that investment yields
the desired dividend. I must say that national development must be holistic, all
inclusive, and futuristic, taking cognisance of resource mobilisation and deployment
to critical sections of the economy. Directing resources to youth development is a
kingpin to national progress and global cohesion. This is, surely, the commitment
and dedication of Government and by extension, the Ministry of Youth and Sports. I
encourage the youth to remain focused, open, and guided by national tenets.
HON. MUSTAPHA USSIF (MP)
MINISTER FOR YOUTH AND SPORTS
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
The development of this policy was rigorous, thorough, coordinated, and all-
inclusive. The success associated with this process emanated from numerous
stakeholders dedicating and committing their time and resources to ensure that
the output is not only desirable but also fit for purpose. The Ministry of Youth and
Sports recognises these invaluable contributions and remains grateful to institutions
and organisations from the National Development Planning Commission, Technical
Committee, Federation of Persons with Disability Organisations, Youth Groups,
Youth-Focused Civil Society Organisations, Women Groups, the United Nations
Systems, Guild of Professional Youth Workers, Academia, STAR Ghana, ActionAid,
Commonwealth Secretariat, Traditional Authorities, Ministries, Departments and
Agencies, Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies and Political Parties in
Ghana.
The contribution of the Parliamentary Select Committee on Youth, Sports and
Culture, the direction of the Governing Boards of the Ministry of Youth and
Sports, and the National Youth Authority cannot be downplayed. Hence, we hold
tremendous gratitude for the personalities of these institutions.
Finally, our appreciation goes to the Government of Ghana for all the guidance and
direction as well as the resources provided and investment in youth development.
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ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS
4IR - Fourth Industrial Revolution

AfCFTA - African Continental Free Trade Area
AfDB - African Development Bank
AI - Artificial Intelligence
AIDS - Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome
APAYE - African Plan of Action for Youth Empowerment
AU - African Union
BECE - Basic Education Certification Examination
CARES - Covid-19 Alleviation and Revitalisation of Enterprises Support
CBOs - Community-based Organisations
CHRAG - Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice
CNC - Centre for National Culture
COVOG - Coalition of Volunteering Organisations, Ghana
CPESDP - Coordinated Programme for Economic and Social Development
CSOs - Civil Society Organisations
DACF - District Assemblies Common Fund
DPs - Development Partners
DYLG - Democratic Youth League of Ghana
ECOWAS - Economic Community of West African States
EPA - Environmental Protection Agency
ESD - Extension Services Department
FAO - Food and Agriculture Organisation
FBOs - Faith-based Organisations
GAC - Ghana Aids Commission
GEA - Ghana Employers Association
GEA - Ghana Enterprises Agency
GEPA - Ghana Export Promotion Authority
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GES - Ghana Education Service

GETFUND - Ghana Education Trust Fund
GFD - Ghana Federation of Disability Organisations
GHS - Ghana Health Service
GIFEC - Ghana Investment Fund for Electronic Communications
GIPA - Ghana Investment Promotion Authority
GIPC - Ghana Investment Promotion Centre
GIS - Ghana Immigration Service
GIZ - German Development Agency
GNCCI - Ghana National Chamber of Commerce and Industry
GPS - Ghana Police Service
GRA - Ghana Revenue Authority
GSS - Ghana Statistical Service
GYC - Ghana Youth Council
GYEEDA - Ghana Youth Employment and Entrepreneurship Programme
GYF - Ghana Youth Federation
HIV - Human Immuno-Deficiency Virus
HND - Higher National Diploma
ICT - Information and Communications Technology
IFAD - International Fund for Agricultural Development
IHME - Institute for Health Metrics Evaluation
ILO - International Labour Organisation
LEAP - Livelihood Empowerment against Poverty
M&E - Monitoring and Evaluation
MASLOC - Microfinance and Small Loans Centre
MDAs - Ministries, Departments and Agencies
MELR - Ministry of Employment and Labour Relations
MESTI - Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation
MFA - Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture
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MHA - Mental Health Authority

MLGDRD - Ministry of Local Government, Decentralisation and Rural
Development
MMDAs - Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies
MMDCEs - Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives
MoCD - Ministry of Communication and Digitalisation
MoE - Ministry of Education
MoF - Ministry of Finance
MoFA - Ministry of Food and Agriculture
MoH - Ministry of Health
MoI - Ministry of the Interior
MoJOAG - Ministry of Justice and Attorney-General’s Department
MoTI - Ministry of Trade and Industry
MoYS - Ministry of Youth and Sports
NAB - National Accreditation Board
NABCO - Nation Builders Corps
NACoC - Narcotics Control Commission
NASPA - National Service Personnel Association
NCTE - National Council of Tertiary Education
NDPC - National Development Planning Commission
NEIP - National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme
NGOs - Non-Governmental Organisations
NHIA - National Health Insurance Authority
NLC - National Labour Commission
NRC - National Redemption Council
NS - National Security
NSC - National Service Corps
NSS - National Service Scheme
NYA - National Youth Authority
NYC - National Youth Council
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NYEP - National Youth Employment Programme

NYOC - National Youth Organising Commission
NYP - National Youth Policy
OHLGS - Office of the Head of Local Government Service
PAYE - Plan of Action for Youth Empowerment
PHC - Population and Housing Census
PPP - Public Private Partnership
PWDs - Persons with Disabilities
PYD - Positive Youth Development
RPL - Recognition of Prior Learning
SDGs - Sustainable Development Goals
STEM - Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics
SWOT - Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats
TUC - Trades Union Congress
TVET - Technical and Vocational Education and Training
UN - United Nations
UNDESA - United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs
UNDP - United Nations Development Programme
UNFPA - United Nations Population Fund
UNICEF - United Nations Children’s Fund
UNESCO - United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation
UKAID - United Kingdom Agency for International Development
USAID - United States Agency for International Development
VOLU - Voluntary Work Camps Association of Ghana
WASSCE - West Africa Senior Secondary Certificate Examination
WB - World Bank
WHO - World Health Organisation
WPAY - World Programme of Action for Youth
YEA - Youth Employment Agency
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KEY POLICY DEFINITIONS
Youth:
There are various definitions of the youth at National, Regional and International
levels: - The United Nations;
Youth is a person between the ages of 15 and 24 years. - World Health Organisation;
Defines an adolescent as any person between the ages of 10 and 19 and young
people as individuals between ages 10 and 24 years. - The Commonwealth;
Youth is a young person between the ages of 15 and 29 years. - African Youth
Charter;
Youth or young people refer to people between the ages of 15 and 35 years. -
Ghana’s Children’s Act 1998, Act 560;
A child is a person below the age of 18 years.
However, for this policy and in line with the National Youth Authority Act 2016,
Act 939, a youth is defined as a person between the ages of 15 and 35 years. The
underlying principle is to harmonise these diverse definitions and respond to the
socio-cultural context that creates opportunities for the holistic development of the
youth. Concurrently, the term youth is used interchangeably and intended to have
the same meaning as young persons.
Youth Development:
The policy shall ascribe to the description of youth development as the process
of providing opportunities that support young people acquire knowledge, skills,
competencies, and the right attitudes needed to realise their potential for optimum
productivity through adolescence to adulthood. It is about young people becoming
active members of society, contributing to national development, fostering positive
relationships, and building their leadership strengths. Youth development should be
well coordinated and programmed to empower the youth.
Youth Development Mainstreaming:

It is a deliberate process of integrating youth development issues into all programmes,
projects, and activities across all institutions, private and public, at the National,
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Local, and Community levels. It should be all-inclusive, all-embracing of needs,

concerns, and requirements of youth throughout all programmes and activities
during all phases of programme development, implementation, and monitoring
and evaluation. It would be part of the development mainstreaming to integrate
youth development activities into all stages of institutional and organizational
development plans, and that includes public and private interventions.
Youth Empowerment:
create choices in life, are aware of the implications of those choices, make an
informed decision freely, take action based on that decision and accept responsibility
for the consequences for those actions. Empowering young people means creating
and supporting the enabling conditions under which young people can act for
themselves, and on their own terms, rather than at the direction of others”. These
enabling conditions include;
i. an economic and social base,

ii. political will, adequate resource allocation, and supportive legal and
administrative frameworks,
iii. a stable environment of equality, peace, and democracy,
iv. access to knowledge, information, skills, and a positive value system.
In line with this, this policy will seek to encourage institutions and stakeholders to
create an enabling environment for youth decisions and actions to be made and
undertaken at freewill.
Youth Participation:
The process of actively involving young people in processes, institutions and
decisions that affect their lives. It is about ensuring that young people are actively
engaged and have a real influence in making decisions that affect them. Youth
participation must be deliberate and conscious enough to ensure that young people
are not only represented but, are contributing to real discussions, agreeing to
resolutions, and taking actions leading to outcomes that benefit them and society
at large. Thus, there should be no dealing with issues relating to the youth without
their involvement.
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Youth Organisation:
The National Youth Authority Act 2016 (Act 939) defines a youth organisation as an
organisation registered by the National Youth Authority as an association to achieve
the objects of the Act. Registered associations include youth-led and youth-focused
organisations. Youth-led organisations are organisations formed and managed
by the youth themselves, whilst the youth-focused organisations are institutions
working for and in the interest of the youth. In furtherance of this, there have been
actions to widen the scope. Thus, the definition of youth organisation in the context
of this policy will seek to include formal or informal, registered or unregistered,
private or public, with the view of educating, orienting and regularising the status
of unregistered ones.
Youth Worker (or Youth Development Practitioner):

A youth worker or a youth development practitioner refers to a professionally trained
person who guides and supports young people through activities that intentionally
seek to positively impact their personal, social, and educational development to
help them reach their full potential in society.
Youth Serving Agency (or Youth Development Agency):

A private organisation or public legal entity that drives youth-oriented activities
which meet youth needs and promotes their development.
Youth Development Stakeholders:

These are the various individuals, institutions, and agencies promoting and
facilitating the interest, needs, and development of young people. For the purposes
of this policy, stakeholders include but are not limited to Civil and Public Servants,
Community Leaders, Development Partners, the Media, Non-Governmental
Organisations (NGOs), Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), Faith-Based Organisations
(FBOs), Community-Based Organisations (CBOs) Parents, Policy-Makers (Parliament,
Ministries, Cabinet, etc.), Persons with Disability, Politicians, the Private Sector,
Entrepreneurs, Religious Leaders, Traditional Leaders, Youth, Youth Leaders, Youth
Workers, and Development Practitioners.
Decent Work:
According to the International Labour Organisation (ILO), decent work refers to,
“the aspirations of people in their working lives. It involves opportunities for work
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that is productive and delivers a fair income, security in the workplace and social
protection for families, better prospects for personal development and social
integration, freedom for people to express their concerns, organize and participate
in the decisions that affect their lives and equality of opportunity and treatment for
all women and men”. This policy aligns itself to this definition put forward by the
ILO.
Persons with Disabilities:

As has been adopted with appropriateness, by the Persons With Disability Act
2006, Act 715, this Policy associates itself with the United Nations (UN) definition
of Persons with Disabilities, which states, “Persons with Disabilities include, those
who have long-term physical, mental, intellectual or sensory impairments which in
interaction with various barriers may hinder their full and effective participation in
society on an equal basis with others.” However, for the purposes of proactiveness
and ensuring inclusion for maximum benefit of policy interventions, the definition
extends to include future dimensions of disability, as may be promulgated by
national policy and/ or international protocols and conventions.
Ministry:
Ministry, as may be used unqualified, refers to the Ministry of Youth and Sports
(MoYS) as is currently applied, and its succeeding Ministry responsible for youth.
This is/ will be the Ministry with overall responsibility for youth development in
Ghana and this Policy document.
Vulnerable Groups:
Include youth with transient problems and marginalised young people in deprived,
impoverished and hard-to-reach communities, youth with all forms of disabilities,
unemployed youth, youth with mental disorders, youth in need of psychosocial
support, youth in abusive situations, irregular youth migrants, homeless youth,
youth adversely affected by development interventions, youth affected by disasters,
among others.
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The Ghanaian youth, like the youth in many other countries, is recognised
as a strategic asset for nation-building and development. Thus, over the years,
particularly, since post-independence, Ghana together with its key stakeholders and
development partners, have implemented series of interventions targeted at youth
empowerment, cohesion and development.
In order to strengthen coordination and effective implementation of these meaningful
interventions and position the youth to contribute significantly at all levels, it is
essential to develop a comprehensive and a more formalised framework to guide
implementation, coordination, monitoring and evaluation. This led to the drafting
of a more informed policy document initiated in 1999 by the Ministry of Youth and
Sports. This process continued until 2009 when a substantive National Youth Policy
was finalised and launched in 2010. Consequently, reviewing the existing policy to
reflect current realities and strengthen institutional collaboration, cooperation and
coordination, among stakeholders, for better outcomes resulted in this process of
developing the 2022 – 2032 National Youth Policy document.
Cognisance of the fact that the youth are the future of the state; meaningful
investment must be made by government and other stakeholders for optimum
dividend to be attained. The Policy provides strategic avenues and direction for
investment. It focuses on: Economic and Financial Empowerment of Young People,
Youth Health and Wellbeing, Training and Development, Youth Participation
and Governance, Cross-Cutting Issues and Youth Development Mainstreaming,
Institutional Framework for Youth Development in Ghana; and Youth and the Future
Thus, it does not only provide ground for mainstreaming, but also, build inter and
intra- organisational synergies for the purposes of strengthening young people’s
resilience for living in dignity, good health, peace, economic security, among others
in society that respects and values inter-generational equality and justice.
The 2022-2032 National Youth Policy envisions:
“Empowered Young Generation, Creating Sustainable Opportunities for
Development”
This vision, emanating from several stakeholder discussions, serves as motivation
for public investment, key stakeholder planning, and design and implementation
of youth interventions. It provides a central focus for all push and pull factors for
the overwhelming youth to aspire in their quest to develop themselves, accept
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responsibilities and desire to achieve their aspirations in a humble, just, fair,

peaceful, transparent and accountable manner. The purposes of the state and other
key stakeholders’ responsibility for youth development is clearly encapsulated in
the “Empowered Young Generations”.
This vision is intended to be transported to its desired destination by the theme:
“Benefit for Youth Involve Youth: Together For a Prosperous Future”
The overall goal of this policy is:
“To Develop Creative and Innovative Youth Appropriately Equipped With Sense
of Responsibility, Patriotism and National Pride with Advanced Technology
Relevant For National and Global Dynamics”
• This goal extending from that espoused in the 2010 National Youth Policy
and its achievement, embraces the future desired position of the state
of Ghana regarding the youth. It also considers resource availability,
technology, the future of development, and changing demographics.
• Specifically, the policy intends to achieve the following objectives:
• To promote decent job creation, employability and livelihood
empowerment for the youth.
• To promote universal coverage, inclusive health service delivery, healthy
lifestyles, and total wellbeing of the youth.
• To develop institutional capacities and schemes that support youth skills
transfer, creativity and innovation.
• To enhance the participation of the youth in governance, community
development, and decision-making and elevate their sense of civic
responsibility.
• To establish an institutional framework for the coordination of youth
development interventions and mainstreaming.
• To promote the fundamental human rights, and physical and reformative
development of young persons, including young women and persons
with disabilities, at all levels.
• To develop resilient and self-reliant youth.
• To facilitate the participation of youth in international affairs.
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• To promote a quota system to enhance youth access to opportunities.

• To strengthen coordination through monitoring and evaluation of youth
interventions.
The policy vision, broad goals and objectives cannot be sustained without embracing
and enforcing core values that are sincerely dear to the tenets of positive and
multiple beneficial results. In this regard, the 2022 – 2032 National Youth Policy
will promote: Discipline, Excellence, Honesty, Team spirit, Learning, Knowledge,
Service, Selflessness and Hard Work .
This policy is guided by the following principles:
• The Government of Ghana recognises that sustainable development
requires constantly improved human capital.
• The Government of Ghana is aware that a well-disciplined and skilled
youth is an asset for national development.
• Since the youth of today are leaders of tomorrow, the state has the absolute
obligation to equip them with the knowledge, skills, competence and
leadership required to meet the development challenges of tomorrow.
• That effective interventions are a Shared Responsibility of all stakeholders,
that the youth, the prime beneficiaries of the policy must take maximum
responsibility and interest in their success and totally support full
implementation of interventions.
• Globally, all countries are turning to the development of youth as a
catalyst to sustain their development. Ghana cannot be left out of this
global phenomenon.
The core principles are: Gender equality; ‘For ALL Ghanaian youth everywhere’;
Holistic, Competency and Transparency; “Nothing for youth without youth”;
Alignment with other national and international policies; Outcomes
and Results-focused; Positive youth development; Youth development
mainstreaming; Resource mobilisation and usage; Data-driven interventions;
Collective responsibility and ownership; Continuity and persistence.
In line with the multi-sectoral approach to implementation, it is required that all
state and non-state actors, public and private, marshal their resources to carry-
out activities towards achieving the desired outcomes. They will be guided by
the Implementation Plan with full commitment, collaboration, partnership, and
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goodwill. The Ministry of Youth and Sports through the National Youth Authority
(NYA) is responsible for coordinating implementation by all actors. Resources for
the implementation will be mobilised locally and internationally from the public
and private sectors, with emphasis on the use of local materials for interventions
to minimise cost.
The Ministry in collaboration with NYA and all stakeholders, will institutionalise a
robust Monitoring and Evaluation system linked with the National M&E framework
to track progress and disseminate results periodically. A communication strategy
will also be implemented in the course of the policy implementation to sustain the
interest and commitment of all actors.
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CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND
1.0 Introduction
1. The Ghanaian youth, like the youth in many other countries, is recognised
as a strategic asset for nation-building and development. Thus, over the
years, particularly, since post-independence, Ghana together with its key
stakeholders and development partners, have implemented a series of
interventions targeted at youth cohesion and development. A comprehensive
narrative of some of these policies and programmes are incorporated in
this chapter. In reviewing and developing renewed policy actions through
extensive consultations, the purpose for the review and the rationale for the
new actions as captioned in this chapter seek to support implementation
of the new Policy from 2022 – 2032 with the socio-cultural and economic
context of the youth at the International, National and Sub-National levels
being holistically considered and summarised.
2. To achieve maximum outcomes with efficient use of resources, the variance
in terms of youth status and diverse needs have been strategically categorised
and are expected to inform policy and programme decisions from conception,
through implementation to evaluation.
1.2 Background
3. The potential of the youth to contribute to national development and the
need to harness that potential has been recognised by the Government
of Ghana since independence. Thus, several interventions were initiated
and implemented, mostly on, an ad hoc basis and quite spontaneous, in
response to emerging youth challenges in relation to socio-cultural, economic
and political trends. This situation, especially during the immediate post-
independence era, could be understood as the newly formed state needed to
immediately galvanise its human resource, particularly the youth, to assume
responsible roles for the acceleration of development.
4. In this regard, the Government of the First Republic sought to orient the youth
to become disciplined, patriotic and encouraged them to acquire leadership
skills that would enable them to play active roles in the socio-economic
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endeavours of the country. For effective implementation, the Workers’

Brigade and Ghana Young Pioneers initiatives were formed, with the latter
having cohorts as, ™African Personality, the Young Pioneers, the Kwame
Nkrumah Youth and the Young Party League∫. The Workers’ Brigade
contributed significantly to youth employment and agriculture production that
provided inputs for the established industries and factories. On the other hand,
the African Personality and the Young Party Leagues succeeded in grooming
patriotic and disciplined youth needed to foster and promote leadership for
nation-building. As the euphoria of independence began to wane, the ability
to sustain efforts declined, giving way to apathy and negative perceptions.
5. Nonetheless, the Second Republic initiated in 1969, was faced with the reality
of an indisciplined youth emanating from the abandonment of the previous
initiatives. Thus, the National Service Corps was introduced. It was also
meant to reduce the high incidence of unemployment in the country (Akyea,
1970a, cited in Tagoe & Oheneba-Sakyi, 2015). The Service in collaboration
with the Voluntary Work Camps Association and the Ghana Youth Council
implemented a number of construction and farming projects to create jobs for
the youth. To further strengthen and provide an institutional framework for
the coordination of youth programmes and policies, the Ministry for Youth and
Rural Development was established alongside an implementing institution;
the Department of Youth Services. The Department was to supervise all youth
programmes and spearhead participation of the youth in rural development
and national reconstruction initiatives.
6. The Centre for Civic Education was also established with the mandate of
providing civic education to the populace where many young persons were
trained to conduct mass education across the country. Besides the promotion
of the rural development programme, the National Civic Education Programme
provided employment opportunities to the youth. These laudable initiatives
though significantly successful, in their purpose, were met with challenges
such as those extrapolated by the Legon Observer, 1971 and Abbey & Brew,
1970, both cited in Tagoe & Oheneba-Sakyi, 2015:
● The establishment of the National Service Corps (NSC) which was
intended to provide for employment, turned out to be an instrument of
rural development, an agency for mobilising local people for community
development.
● The NSC was a duplication of the Department of Social Welfare and
Community Development, offering a scope for the exercise of private
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and political patronage.

● The absence of detailed figures on employment levels and reliable data
from official sources made attempts to deal with the problem very
difficult.
7. In the 1970s, the National Service Corps was disbanded and the Ghana
Youth Council (GYC) re-organised into the National Youth Council (NYC) with
accompanying legal backing of National Redemption Council Decree 1974
(NRCD 241).
8. Following the promulgation of National Redemption Council (NRC) Decree
208 the National Service Secretariat and the National Service Scheme were
established. In line with the Decree, young Ghanaian graduates from Tertiary
institutions and Sixth Form were obliged to undertake a one-year service in
identified areas of national development. This was replaced in 1980 with the
Ghana Service Scheme Act,1980 (Act 426), increasing the duration of national
service to two years and a minimum of six months of military training.
9. Furthermore, to reinforce the contribution of the youth to national
development, the National Reconstruction Corps was instituted and became
instrumental in the implementation of farming projects under the “Operation
Feed Yourself” initiative.
10. Following the incidence of the revolution in the 1980s, attempts were made
to drastically review and give push to youth programmes and policies in line
with the ideals of the revolution. This led to the establishment of the National
Youth Organising Commission (NYOC) with the mandate, among others, to
organise a monolithic mass national youth movement. Thus, the Democratic
Youth League of Ghana (DYLG) was formed to carry out the objectives of the
31st December Revolution.
11. When Ghana experienced the Nigerian Deportation Order of her citizens,
together with national bushfires catastrophe, leading to severe famine
and poverty, the National Mobilisation Programme was established to
reintegrate the returnees, mobilise the youth and engage them in community
development programmes.
12. As youth interventions were ad hoc and were not properly coordinated,
it became essential to develop a comprehensive and a more formalised
framework to guide implementation, coordination, monitoring and evaluation
of youth activities and programmes. This led to the drafting of a more
informed policy document in 1999 by the Ministry of Youth and Sports. This
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process continued until 2009 when a substantive National Youth Policy was
finalised and launched in 2010. This was followed by an implementation plan
developed in 2014. The Policy provided for at least a five-year review cycle.
13. Consequently, reviewing the existing policy to reflect current realities and
strengthen institutional collaboration, cooperation and coordination, among
stakeholders, for better outcomes resulted in this process. The output is this
2022 – 2032 National Youth Policy document.
1.2 Rationale
14. The youth, constituting close to 36 percent of the total population of
Ghana, require consciously formalised coordinated effort to ensure quality
improvement in their lives to enable them contribute meaningfully to
development. Their participation in all sectors of life can no longer be
treated ordinarily but, as a standard of democratic and demographic rights
and require a mechanism for ensuring integration. This Policy provides the
required framework, comprehensively designed to respond to the need
to effectively coordinate implementation of all programmes and activities
affecting the youth. Cognisance of the fact that the youth is the future of
the State; meaningful investment must be made by government and other
stakeholders for optimum dividend to be attained. The Policy provides
strategic avenues and direction for investment.
15. Article 12 of the African Youth Charter enjoins all Member States to develop a
comprehensive and coherent Youth Policy, taking into consideration the inter-
relatedness of the challenges facing young people across sectors. This Policy
fulfils the African Youth Charter obligation conferred on Member States. It also
addresses protocols, conventions, and other concerns at all levels.
1.3 Purpose of the Policy

16. The National Youth Policy is intended to provide framework and direction for
all stakeholders involved in the implementation of policies, programmes and
projects for the development of the youth. It is also a tool for effective and
efficient coordination and utilisation of resources for the optimum benefit
of the youth and their contribution to national development. Thus, it does
not only provide ground for mainstreaming, but also, build inter and intra-
organisational synergies for the purposes of strengthening young people’s
resilience for living in dignity, good health, peace, economic security, among
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others in society that respects and values inter-generational equality and

justice.
1.4 Situational Analysis

17. The issues affecting the development of the youth in Ghana emerge from
different spheres of the life. It includes, but not limited to national, regional,
international, global and even at community and/ or individual levels. In order
to address these issues, it is imperative to analyse the various dimensions of
the situation and identify the primary concerns for appropriate policy action.
18. The analysis of the situation is generated by Issues Survey, Youth
Development Research, Consultations, Policy Changes, Review of Protocols
and Conventions, Development Partners (DPs) Term Papers and emerging
Global Trends (pandemics, technology, climate change, population dynamics,
aspirations, etc.). This analysis, which is supported by comprehensive desk
reviews, expert discussions and inferences of good practice, are consolidated
with the SWOT Analysis discussed in the text below:
1.4.1 Economic and Financial Empowerment of Young People

19. Building the economic empowerment of young people does not happen
in isolation. It requires significant financial support for income generation,
employment, general entrepreneurship, and the acquisition of requisite
logistics, equipment and other relevant tools.
1.4.1.1 Youth Entrepreneurship and Financial Inclusion

20. Entrepreneurship is proven to provide a platform for softening the absolute
burden of youth employment on Government. It seeks to encourage
the attitude of, “thinking outside the box” in the creation of alternative
employment and livelihood for the youth. Economies around the world
envision strong and vibrant businesses, Governments and entrepreneurs
being driven by changing technologies, innovation, and work processes,
which require the public and private sectors together with key stakeholders
to realise and encourage the inter-connectivity between entrepreneurship
and innovation in driving contemporary economies and financial resources as
enabler.
21. This is largely propagated to continue for a long while and countries are
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expected to adapt to this new trend in order to stay competitive and

productive. The key to Ghana’s strength to stay afloat is entrepreneurship.
Fortunately, Ghana is blessed with a teeming youth population, briskly poised
for entrepreneurship.
22. However, youth in Ghana are confronted with the issues of high interest rates
on small business loans, collateral requirements, limited financial information,
and access to relevant job opportunities. This issue coupled with the high
cost of production, makes it difficult for young people willing to start their
own enterprises to succeed.
23. Over the years, Government has attempted to mitigate the effect of these
financial exclusion issues through the implementation of youth development
entrepreneurship programmes. Policy interventions such as the reservation
of 30 percent of public procurement contracts for youth and Persons with
Disabilities, the Microfinance and Small Loans Schemes, the National
Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme (NEIP), the Rural Enterprises
Project, Planting for Food and Jobs, Youth in Agriculture Programme, among
others are laudable government initiatives towards promoting youth
entrepreneurship. In order to reinforce Government effort and provide
for coordination, institutions such as the Ghana Enterprises Agency (GEA),
Microfinance and Small Loans Centre (MASLOC), Ghana Investment Promotion
Authority (GIPA) and the Youth Employment Agency (YEA) were established.
24. Despite the good intentions of these interventions, they have not reflected
adequately in the ability of the youth to attain a substantial level of
entrepreneurship development since access to capital, financial literacy,
managerial skills, access to market, perceived unfair competition, dumping
and high cost of doing business still persist as disincentive to the growth of
youth enterprises.
1.4.1.2 Youth Employment and Labour Issues

25. The youth of Ghana, aspire to gain decent employment with attractive
working conditions and remuneration to enable them to live prosperous and
fulfilling lives. They also require a good working environment that guarantees
security and welfare. This is the mentality with which they enter into the
labour market and it is important to have such expected conditions at the
work place in order to promote their well-being and development.
26. However, studies indicate that most jobs in Ghana are low-skill, requiring
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limited cognitive skills and technological content. This in turn translates into
low earnings and less decent labour practices (World Bank, 2020). In the light
of Espacios (2017), the lack of work experience is frequently used as excuse
for refusing to employ new graduates; limited labour market information, the
desire of the youth to work within their speciality, and high salary expectation
hinder access to job opportunities. Yet, our review points to unfair termination
of appointments, discrimination in employment, loss of jobs, unfair labour
practices, unresolved labour issues involving young people are some of the
challenges the youth continue to face as job seekers or as employees.
27. Despite the significant expansion of the national economy since 1992, a
significant percentage of youth continue to face prolonged unemployment.
According to the 2019 Ghana Living Standards Survey 7 (GLSS7) Report, the
unemployment rate for the population aged 15-35 years is 12.6 percent and
the rate is higher among females 13.8 percent than males 11.4 percent.
In terms of geographical locations, Greater Accra recorded the highest
unemployment rate of 17.6 percent and the lowest of 8.6 percent by the
Northern Region. It is observed that the female unemployment rate is higher
than for males in all regions except Greater Accra 19.1 percent male, 16.3
percent female, and Upper East 11.2 percent male, 10.7 percent female.
28. The unemployment rate for the population aged 15-24 years (United Nations
definition of youth) is 18.5 percent compared to 8.7 percent for those aged
25-35 years. Similar to the population aged 15-35 years, the rate is higher
among females, 19.1 percent than males 17.9 percent. Irrespective of sex,
the unemployment rate among the population 15-24 years is higher than
that of the population 15-35 years in all the regions. It is observed that the
unemployment rate among the population aged 15-24 years is quite high
in Ashanti (30.8 percent), Greater Accra (30.2 percent) and Western (18.5
percent) regions.
29. Like many African countries, Ghana’s current youth unemployment status
and its interlinking labour market issues points negatively towards youth job-
seeking, sustenance and progression. Considering the demographic structure
of Ghana’s population, the situation of youth employment and the negative
tendencies relating to labour issues do not seem to synchronise investment.
1.4.1.3 Hunger and Poverty

30. It is the responsibility of every government to ensure that national resources
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and particularly the economy are well managed such that the basic necessities
of life such as food, clothing and shelter are guaranteed for the citizenry.
However, in Ghana, the problem of hunger and poverty exists at different
levels for different people in different areas of the country. According to
the United Nations, extreme hunger and malnutrition remain a barrier to
sustainable development and creates a trap from which people cannot easily
escape. Hunger and malnutrition mean less productive individuals, who are
more prone to disease and thus often unable to earn more and improve their
livelihoods. Like, many countries in Africa, hunger and poverty are major
developmental challenges indices facing the youth.
31. As a chunk of the youth are relatively unemployed, they are unable to fend
for themselves in terms of providing decent meals. Many of the youth are
dependants and therefore unable to determine their feeding levels and, in
most situations live, work and sleep in hunger. In search of jobs, significant
number of the youth migrate to urban and city centres and are worse
confronted with limited or inaccessibility of food. The challenge is, whilst their
counterparts in rural communities may be able to depend on family relations
for food, those in the urban and city centres lack such family support. The
situation is even worse for homeless and street youth.
32. According to the Ghana Voluntary National Review Report on the
Implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development (2019),
the proportion of Ghanaians living below the international poverty line
declined from 13.6 percent in 2013 to 11.9 percent in 2017. The proportion of
Ghanaians classified as poor based on national definition reduced from 24.2
percent in 2013 to 23.4 percent in 2017. The incidence of poverty is higher
among the rural population.
33. It can therefore be deduced that the data exhibited is all-encompassing in
terms of the demographic characteristics of the country and therefore includes
the youth. As the youth consistently constitute one third of the population,
it is convincing, supported by our reviews, which a significant number of the
youth are below the poverty line as espoused.
1.4.1.4 Youth and Agriculture

34. The agriculture sector has the potential to boost the creativity, innovation and
entrepreneurship of the youth. It is capable of enhancing the expansion of
other sectors of the economy through the value chain. It will create decent
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employment opportunities, wealth, and address the issue of high incidence

of youth migration.
35. Ghana has a large expanse of arable land that can adequately support the
cultivation of various crops and provide sufficient opportunities for agricultural
value chain development. There is a comparative advantage in undertaking
farming or agricultural ventures. However, the acreage of land under
cultivation is relatively very low with difficulties associated with farmland
acquisition. This situation limits land engagement and backtracks progress
in Ghana’s quest to creat jobs through agriculture: ‘‘Planting for Food and
Jobs’’. The phenomenon largely affects youth involvement in the agriculture
value system.
36. According to the Ghana Statistical Service (2017/2018 Ghana Census of
Agriculture National Report), the total youth population engaged in agriculture
was estimated at 902,174 with 31.3 percent and 24.3 percent in the rural
and urban areas respectively. The data revealed that 66.7 percent of the
youth engaged in agriculture are males. Additionally, the data projects that
3 in 10 persons engaged in agriculture are youth. It can be deduced that an
estimated 70 percent of people engaged in agriculture in Ghana are beyond
the youth age bracket.
37. Our review reveals that the disinterest of youth in agriculture stems from
stringent land tenure system, tedious farming methods, limited investment
in agriculture, limited information on opportunities in the agribusiness value
chain, perceived risks outweighing returns, limited social amenities in farming
communities, poor recognition of agriculture as a dignified profession.
38. If this trend is reversed, agriculture will play the expected role in creating
employment and contributing significantly to the improvement of food
security in Ghana.
1.4.1.5 Youth Migration and Mobility

39. Generally, the movement of people from one point to the other in search of
opportunities and for other social needs is not necessarily an issue. However,
when the movement, and in this case migration, becomes rampant, ill-
informed and injurious to persons, society and the generality of human
development and habitation, it turns problematic.
40. Over the years, the migration of young people from rural to urban areas and
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transnational migration has been unbearably high in view of its implications

for development. The factors associated with this phenomenon are diverse;
including political, economic, social, and environmental. Forces such as
conflicts, hunger, poverty, disasters, drought, education, limited essential
amenities and rapid urbanisation contribute significantly to youth migration.
As the conditions of areas of origin begin to experience these adversarial
effects, youth livelihoods are threatened and migration increasingly becomes
eminent.
41. These young migrants are often faced with abuse, poverty, and vulnerability in
their new settlements. They mostly live in slum areas with poor conditions, are
involved in indecent jobs and are confronted with high adverse consequences
such as rape, diseases, unplanned pregnancies, crime and incarceration, drugs
and substance abuse, stereotyping, victimisation and profiling.
42. The policies of succeeding governments implemented for rural development,
macro-economic growth, infrastructure expansion and the regulations of
national labour migration could have immense impact but has not adequately
addressed youth migration as expected.
1.4.1.6 Youth and Environmental Sustainability

43. Human activities, such as the use of fossil fuel, deforestation, construction,
unsustainable agricultural practices, and mining contribute to environmental
degradation leading to climate change. These have negative implications
for availability of water, food security, and ecosystem sustainability. The
consequences associated with these characterise the issues militating against
youth development and are of concern for policy interventions.
44. Currently, over 40% of the world’s population suffer from drying soils,
water insecurity, and other adverse impacts of ecosystem degradation (Tim
Christophersen - UN Decade Ecosystem Restoration, 2021).
45. Land degradation and illegal mining that mostly involve the youth does
not only destroy arable lands and denies the youth access to farm lands for
productive purposes but also, particularly illegal mining inflict diseases, life
threatening injuries, deaths, delinquencies, educational drop-outs, drug and
substance abuses and trafficking.
46. Environmental degradation, could also result from the destruction of the forest,
water bodies, vegetative cover, prolonged drought and, poorly managed
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construction. These activities mostly involve the youth as perpetrators and

have negative consequences on places for recreation and congregation,
employment, promotion of tourism, and other livelihoods.
47. Negative environmental sustainability practices have a direct and indirect
impact on the cost of production especially on industries as the cost of
raw materials increases because of scarcity and contamination. This in turn
affects the level of industrial employment and dwindle entrepreneurship
development for which the youth are the major losers.
48. Thus, environmental sustainability is not only a concern for the youth but also
a necessary ingredient for sustainable livelihoods.
1.4.2 Youth Health and Wellbeing

49. The health and wellbeing of the youth is essential for their growth and
development. Thus, the health status of the youth impacts directly on their
contribution to productivity. Very recently, health issues such as HIV and AIDS,
sexual and reproductive health, nutrition, mental health, sports, leisure and
recreation of the youth has become a major concern for development. While
some of these conditions occur naturally, others are a function of lifestyle
behaviours.
1.4.2.1 HIV and AIDS

50. Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Acquired Immunodeficiency
Syndrome (AIDS) among Ghanaian youth remain a major public health
concern. In 2020, the estimated number of young people living with HIV aged
between 15-24 years was 42,016 representing 12.1 percent of the total HIV
population in the country. Young people in this age group continue to account
for 1 in 4 new infections annually since 2016. Adolescent girls and young
women are disproportionately affected by HIV as they account for 83 percent
of all new infections in this age group (Ghana AIDs Commission, 2020).
51. AIDS is one of the largest contributors to youth mortality in Ghana (IHME,
2018). The youth are particularly vulnerable to HIV infections because they are
sexually active and often engage in unprotected sex with multiple partners.
The practice of multiple sexual partnerships among young people aged 15-24
years increased steadily among young women, from 1.4 percent in 2008 to
2.5 percent in 2017, while it remained unchanged (6 percent) among young
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men during the same period. At the same time, condom use marginally
increased from 28.2 percent to 29.3 percent among young women while it
declines sharply among young men from 46.4 percent to 32.6 percent.
52. These high-risk sexual behaviours are fuelled by low knowledge of HIV
prevention and high stigma and discrimination against persons living or
affected by HIV. Comprehensive knowledge of HIV preventive methods
declined from 28.3 percent in 2008 to 17 percent in 2017 among young
women and from 34.2 percent to 20 percent among their male counterparts
in the same period. Accepting attitudes towards Persons living with HIV
remained significantly low over the last decade, HIV testing behaviour among
the youth is significantly low and shows declining trends in both males and
females; from 13.4 percent to 11 percent among women and from 8.2
percent to 3 percent among men respectively.
53. It is therefore important to implement measures that support information
sharing on HIV/AIDS, early diagnoses and treatment, particularly for pregnant
women in order to contain the spread of the disease and curtail its impact on
the youth.
1.4.2.2 Substance Abuse

54. The use of substances such as drugs, alcohol, tobacco and others are
commonly associated with the youth as they perceive these substances
as inspiration for boosting their energies and pride. Most of these young
people get into substance abuse through peer pressure, curiosity, or post-
traumatic addiction. However, they often continue the practice for various
physical and psychological gratifications including euphoria, attentiveness,
high energy levels, pain relief, and improved sexual performance (Abdul-
Ganiyu et al, 2019). At the high level, as they become more and more
addicted, they begin to diversify their interest and taste, which then leads
them to more complicated and harder substances such as tramadol, heroin,
cocaine, weed (Indian Hemp/marijuana) and a couple of concoctions. This
phenomenon is disastrous for the youth and therefore a significant issue for
policy consideration.
55. The National Health Policy (2017), observed that tobacco use among Junior
High School students decreased from 4.8 percent in 2000 to 2.8 percent in
2017 with the introduction of a new form of substance, notably ‘Shisha’.
Shisha, which was previously unknown in Ghana, is currently being used by
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an estimated 1.3 percent of Junior High School students. Besides alcohol,

shisha and others, another trending substance that is being abused among
the youth is the non-medical use of Tramadol; a prescription synthetic opioid
used for pain relief, which also produces effects similar to the “high” of heroin.
56. Substance abuse among the youth is a serious challenge that can divert the
focus of the youth to anti-social and unproductive behaviour thereby eroding
the opportunity for Government to harness the potentials of the youth bulge
for national development. There is the need to sustain the gains made and to
introduce new measures to address this emerging trend.
1.4.2.3 Mental Health

57. Mental health care is often one of the lowest health priorities for low income
countries and Ghana is no exception (WHO, 2001). In March 2012, the Mental
Health Act, 2012 (Act 846) was passed to facilitate access to treatment
and the coordination of mental health services. However, mental health
in Ghana continues to pose a challenge, as there is little evidence of any
implementation of the Act, except for the establishment of the Mental Health
Authority. Evidence suggests complete unavailability of essential mental
health medications, leaving 98 per cent of patients untreated (MOH, 2016).
58. Act 846 also stipulates that mental health facilities will be established at
the door steps of communities. However, the situation on the ground does
not fully attest to the availability of these facilities as required. Yet, issues of
mental health, especially among youth, continue to increase particularly, the
increase in attempted suicide and suicidal cases. In addition, the shortage
of trained professionals to support the mental health system, stigmatization
of youth with mental illnesses, and social exclusion are some of the critical
challenges that needs to be addressed.
59. Indeed, in countries such as Ghana, many of those in need of treatment do
not reach psychiatric services at all, but seek the care of informal community
mental health services (WHO, 2003) and such informal community health
services as traditional and faith healers and family members who offer varying
quality of service and level of efficacy (Ofori-Atta et al, 2010). It is important
to note that, a formidable mental health system critical to supporting youth
who become mentally ill to be rehabilitated in order to bounce back into
mainstream society and contribute to development is insufficient.
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1.4.2.4 Sexual and Reproductive Health

60. Unsafe sexual behaviours are common among the youth making them
vulnerable to the risk of unplanned pregnancies or sexually transmitted
infections including HIV. It is estimated that 14 per cent of adolescents aged
15 – 19 are already mothers or pregnant with their first child and the direct
and indirect cost of HIV on the lives of individuals and the population is
significant.
61. The level of awareness among the youth in reproductive services such as family
planning, fertility services, HIV transmission and management, reproductive
tract infections, cervical cancer and other gynaecological morbidities, though
intensive have not been yielding desired results, especially among the youth.
62. According to the UNFPA (2019), Ghana’s contraceptive prevalence rate is
33 per cent among sexually active people. Meanwhile, evidence suggests
that the median age at first sexual intercourse among young women (20-24
years) increased marginally from 16.9 years in 1993 to 18.5 years in 2008
and 18.4 years in 2014. In addition, the national incidence of child (below 18
years old) marriage is estimated at 23.6 percent compared to 27.7 percent
for persons aged 18- 49 years and 20.7 percent for women aged 20-24 years.
63. These dynamics have negative implications for youth development and
progress as their engagement in early reproductive ventures curtails their
advancement in education, career development, and general health and
wellbeing.
1.4.2.5 Nutrition
64. Food is very essential for the provision of energy (calories), nutrients, vitamins
and other important elements for human sustenance and survival. For a
healthy life, the body needs the right food with the appropriate nutrients
at the right time in the right quantities. The youthful age is the period for
relatively rapid growth and changes in the physiology and this process
must be consciously attended to by eating well in order to stay healthy. In
Ghana’s situation, nutritional intake does not in most cases synchronise with
the levels of requirement due to several factors including poverty, illiteracy,
unemployment, and early parenting.
65. The high unemployment rate among the youth implies that they may
largely depend on families, friends and other benefactors for feeding. This
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dependency limits their choices of the type of food, the quality of food,
and the quantity of food. Thus, they eat what they get rather than what
they require. Additionally, work pressures and other lifestyles compel many
young people to eat at wrong times or eat unhealthy food. This phenomenon
makes them susceptible to all the dangers associated with poor nutrition and
unhealthy living. The results have been the experiences of young people
in diseases such as hypertension, cancer, diabetes and others which were
hitherto considered as diseases of the aged and the affluent.
66. This situation is compounded by the apathy of the youth towards traditional
foods as they perceive them as archaic, tedious to cook and unpresentable.
Meanwhile, the local or traditional foods have been found to be more
nutritious and of high value in supporting healthy growth and boosting the
immune system.
67. According to the Ghana Statistical Service and others (2015), ‘‘Teen Youth’’
living in rural areas are more likely to be underweight than those in urban
areas, and those born to mothers with little or no education are substantially
more likely to be underweight than children of more educated women. Child
bearing begins early for some young people in Ghana. In 2014, 36.1 percent
of adolescents had begun child bearing by age 19 (GSS et al, 2015). This has
serious consequences because, relative to older mothers, adolescent girls are
more likely to be malnourished and have low birth-weight babies, who are
more likely to become malnourished and be at increased risk of illness and
death than those born to older mothers (GSS et al, 2015).
68. The various interventions undertaken by stakeholders in the area of integrating
and mainstreaming of nutrition into general health services are laudable but
still require intensification.
1.4.2.6 Sports, Leisure and Recreation

70. Sports is recognised as an important instrument for nation-building and
cohesion. Therefore, its organization, development and promotion has been
given prominence in Ghana. Article 37 clause 5 of the 1992 Constitution of
the republic of Ghana seeks to ensure that adequate facilities for sports are
provided throughout the country and that sports are promoted as a means of
fostering national integration, health and discipline. The clause also envisions
the use of sports as a means of promoting international friendship and
understanding.
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71. Sports and recreation are considered essential activities for individuals of all
ages, and play an important role in all societies. Sport does not only promote
physical activity; it teaches important life skills and lessons to youth (Danish
et al., 2004). Engagement in sport programmes and initiatives provides
youth with opportunities to be physically active – thereby improving their
physical health – as well as contributing to youth psychosocial development
by providing opportunities to learn important life skills such as cooperation,
discipline, leadership and self-control.
72. Furthermore, physical activity habits developed during childhood and
adolescence are associated with physical activity habits in adulthood, meaning
an active youth population can translate into a healthier adult population
(Fraser-Thomas et al., 2005). All this combined makes sports and recreational
activities favourable options for development actors and policy-makers to
consider in fostering positive youth development.
73. Positive Youth Development (PYD) in connection to sports and recreation refers
to the ways in which youth ‘may accrue optimal developmental experiences
through their involvement in organised activities’ (Holt and Neely, 2011).
Sports and recreation can foster PYD in various ways. Scholars have found that
various leisure activities have the ability to promote physical, psychological,
emotional, social and intellectual development in youth populations (Fraser-
Thomas et al., 2005). For instance, sports and recreation can combat obesity
and related diseases; increase self-esteem and decrease stress; promote peer
relations and leadership skills, and foster increased participation in academic
endeavours (ibid.).
74. It has been documented that sports participation not only reduces the
tendency among youth to engage in negative social behaviours and is
connected to lower rates of drug use, depression and incidence of suicidal
behaviour, but also is linked to increased likelihood of attending tertiary
education institutions, achieving independence, and obtaining satisfactory
employment (Zarrett et al., 2008).
75. Today, a number of higher education institutions in Ghana offer courses and
programmes in both the theory and the practice of sport, allowing young
people to further pursue interest in sport as a career. In essence, sport
provides opportunities to foster PYD in many ways and should therefore be
considered an important topic of focus in youth development policies.
76. In the recent past, sports have changed very much in contrast to previous
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decades. It is seen as a business and a veritable tool for the development and
promotion of peace. A significant economic force that provides employment,
reduces poverty, improves health and fitness, and bridges cultural and
economic barriers. ‘‘Sports has the power to change the world, it has the
power to inspire and unite people in the way that little else does’’. It is one
of the tools that is capable of facilitating the achievement of the Sustainable
Development Goals, particularly, Goals 3, 4, 5, 11, 16, and 17.
77. This laudable opportunity should be made available and accessible to the
youth for not just leisure but for employment creation throughout the sports
value chain. Meanwhile, in many communities around Ghana, interest of
youth in sports is evidently high but the facilities to support their efforts are
mostly unavailable.
78. Leisure and recreation refresh the mind and builds healthy body. It is
therefore necessary to provide essential avenues for which the youth will
have leisure and recreation. However, the current situation is that places of
leisure and recreation are limited, with many communities being affected. As
the saying goes ‘‘the devil finds work for idle hands’’, the youth unfortunately
get engaged in negative vices.
1.4.3 Training and Development

79. Nations have transformed to their present state by deliberately providing
information and instructions to their citizens to enhance knowledge and
skills application towards progress. Throughout the world, the responsibility
of nation building rests with the people, particularly the youth. This is so
especially for Ghana, which has a majority youthful population. In order
to build capacity to effectively undertake development, there is the need
to comprehensively train and develop the youth to acquire the necessary
market-oriented skills, knowledge and competencies to successfully execute
and bring about the needed development outcomes.
1.4.3.1 Education and Skills Training

80. The quality of human resource in any society has a direct correlation with its
socio-economic development. Thus, education and skills training of young
people is an investment for the development and progress of Ghana. The
training and generally, education must be focused not only on quantity but
also, quality, providing hands-on experiences. However, the situation in
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Ghana suggests otherwise. The quality of skills is low partly because of poor
infrastructure, inadequate teaching equipment and learning aids; large class
sizes with insufficient number of teachers, poor motivation of teachers and
inadequate supervision. Additionally, the number of schools and institutions
in Ghana that provide vocational and technical training is extremely low
compared to those providing mind-oriented programmes (the Humanities).
81. The over-emphasis on humanities as against science, technology, engineering
and mathematics (STEM) suggests a deviation from current development
trends, as this seems a mismatch between education or training and the
needs of industry. Additionally, curriculum and educational planning do not
seem to involve industrial perspectives. Thus, the product lacks the kind
of skills and competencies needed to stimulate the type of growth and
development envisaged.
82. Our review points to the fact that significant number of the youth possess high
level of qualifications in general knowledge, especially in the humanities and
business-related programmes. They hold certificates spanning from Higher
National Diplomas (HND), First Degrees through to Doctoral Degrees (PhDs).
However, most of these qualifications, though significant and essential, are
not able to attract the desired employment. Thus, many of these degree
holders are still found walking around and highly dependent on relations and
benefactors for their livelihoods. Although interest of the youth in technical
and vocational training is growing, it still lags behind that of the social sciences
and the other humanities.
83. Currently, a number of youth who have dropped out of school but still have
interest in learning vocation or trade for a living are unable to have access
to the institutions or in some cases these institutions are unavailable. The
informal sector that could support the formal sector in delivering these
services are ill-structured or in some cases expensive for the reach of these
dropped-outs.
84. One of the important phenomena that has drawn attention in the review has
been youth in correctional centres, youth in prisons, young ex-detainees, and
youth in mental health facilities. This category of youth has a large population
desirous of continuing their education or reconnecting to society by building
their skills and vocation whilst in detention. There have been efforts by some
of them to access the formal systems by undertaking national examinations
such as the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) and West Africa
Senior Secondary Certificate Examination (WASSCE). Some of these young
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inmates have done very well in these examinations and are determined to
further their education. Even though the correctional centres and the prisons
have vocational and skills training facilities for occupational and rehabilitation
therapy, they are seriously under resourced.
85. Another important group of youth is those who are in homeless and street
situations. This group, mostly in distress situations, mainly think of survival
and thus, relegate matters related to training or skills development. Their
situation is more compounded by the absence of conscious interventions to
provide vocational and technical training infrastructure and services to them.
86. In all these dimensions, female interest and involvement in technical and
vocational training lag behind that of their male counterparts and thus,
remains a challenge. The lack of start-up capital for Technical and Vocational
Education and Training (TVET) graduates is also problematic.
87. In an attempt to contribute to filling this gap, the National Youth Authority has
established Youth Leadership Training Institutes across the country. However,
these institutions are under resourced.
1.4.3.2 Information and Communications Technology

88. Globally, advancement in technology is a driving force for socio-economic
growth and development. Information and communications technology
(ICT) is essential for transforming societies. Government of Ghana and major
stakeholders are therefore taking advantage of the transformative power of
ICT to enhance service delivery in both the public and private sectors.
89. In the era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, technology and innovation
provide many opportunities for youth, including Persons with Disabilities who
have become technologically savvy. They adapt quickly and are generally quite
hungry to know and learn new trends and skills. However, the application of
these skills by the youth leaves much to be desired, since some of them
are indulging in cyber-crimes and bullying. The anonymity of users and the
highly unregulated connectivity and information give rise to a loss of cultural
values, misconduct and ICT addiction.
90. Issues of Artificial Intelligence (AI), programming, coding and robotics
exposure among the youth are yet to be seriously exploited to support national
development. Government efforts to promote ICT access by all communities
through Ghana Investment Fund for Electronic Communications (GIFEC) are
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laudable. However, cost, accessibility, unreliability and unavailability of

connectivity of internet services remain a great challenge, particularly for
Persons with Disabilities.
1.4.4 Youth Participation and Governance

91. Generally, the principle of social inclusion dictates that all sectors of
society and individuals are meaningfully engaged in the socio-economic
development of the country. The participation of the youth in national issues
needs to be mainstreamed in all interventions at any level and at any stage
of the development process. The democratic credentials of Ghana can be
sustained when the enabling environment is created for youth voluntary
involvement in national issues such as elections and occupation of leadership,
the development and implementation of national strategies, the resolution
of conflict and peace-building among others. The participation of the youth in
governance should not only be considered a moral and a legal requirement,
but an instrument for growth and progress of the State.
1.4.4.1 Active Citizenship and Participation in Governance

92. The World Programme of Action for Youth adopted by the UN General
Assembly in the year 2000 calls for the advancement of youth agenda in
matters of governance. Consequently, governments of Member States and
their key partners have expressed commitment to ensuring youth participation
in governance, politics and other developmental processes. Following this
development, the Commonwealth, the African Union and all other regional
bodies, as well as, States have taken proactive actions for the realisation
of this agenda. The Commonwealth Plan of Action for Youth Empowerment
(2006 – 2015), the African Plan of Action for Youth Empowerment (2019
– 2023) and the establishment of the National Youth Authority in Ghana
under the National Youth Authority Act 2016, Act 939 are but a few concrete
actions taken to ensure the participation of youth in all spheres of national
and international affairs.
102. Notwithstanding these actions, the participation of the youth in governance
and other decision-making processes is yet to be fully attained as they
have been left out in many aspects of democratic governance. In Ghana,
the elections and appointment of the youth in the governance process and
decision-making processes is still limited. The recent 2020 general elections
and the appointment of Ministers and Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief
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Executives, Boards and Chief Executive Officers of State-Owned Institutions

still connote minimum involvement of the youth in the governance process.
93. Additionally, the access of the youth to institutional systems and structures
of governance in order to enhance their effective participation in public
policy and platforms to address their needs is also problematic. For the youth
to make informed decisions and participate fully in governance and other
decision making processes, there must be free flow of accurate and reliable
information. However, this is lacking in many circumstances and in a few
cases, the information provided is asymmetrical.
94. The apparent loss of information and exclusion of the youth in these
developmental processes, encourages the imposition of policies, programmes,
and projects on the youth which often results in negative outcomes.
95. The major challenges and barriers include:
• Politicisation of youth development structures
• Biased accountability
• Exclusion of a portion of the youth population due to language barrier
• Age exclusion (age is repository of wisdom)
• Cost
• High expectation of base knowledge (perceived inexperience)
• Weak engagement structures and methodology
96. Our review, strongly aligns the issues of youth active citizenship and
participation in governance with the advocacy of the African Youth Charter as
the need to:
• Ensure that every young person participates in all spheres of society.
• Promote active youth participation in society.
• Guarantee the participation of youth in every decision making body, in
accordance with the prescribed laws.
• Facilitate the creation or strengthening of platforms for youth participation
in decision making at local, national, regional and continental levels of
governance.
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• Ensure equal access to young men and women to participate in decision

making and in fulfilling civic duties.
• Give priority to policies and programmes including youth advocacy and
peer-to-peer programmes for marginalised youth, such as out-of-school
and out-of-work youth, to offer them the opportunity and motivation to
reintegrate into mainstream society.
• Provide access to information such that young people become aware of
their right and opportunities to participate in decision-making and civic
life.
• Institute measures to professionalise youth work and introduce relevant
training programmes in higher education and other such training
institutions.
• Provide technical and financial support to build the institutional capacity
of youth organisations.
• Institute policies and programmes of youth volunteerism at local,
national, regional and international levels as an important form of youth
participation and as a means of peer-to-peer training.
• Provide access to information and services that will empower youth to
become aware of their rights and responsibilities.
• Include youth representatives as part of delegations to ordinary sessions
and other relevant meetings to broaden channels of communication and
enhance the discussion of youth-related issues.
97. The issues generally bothering on the propositions of the African Youth
Charter and those elicited from the analysed findings, plays significant role in
determining the level of success of youth active citizenship and participation.
1.4.4.2 Youth Volunteerism in Ghana

98. Volunteerism has the potential of harnessing available human resource
with requisite competencies for development at a lesser cost. It has a huge
benefit for society at large and also the volunteer in many ways, such as the
acquisition of skills, varied experiences and understanding of cross-cultural
issues. It reinforces self-esteem, self-fulfilment, self-confidence and the spirit
of togetherness for nation-building. For States, it helps in identifying skills
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availability and an appraisal of citizens’ commitment and their adherence to

national values such as nationalism, patriotism, unism and communalism.
These benefits are in line with Caprara, et al. and UN Volunteers (2016) that,
volunteerism strengthens social integration and the sense of belonging of the
youth while at the same time enhancing the skills and capacities necessary
for personal development and employability.
99. Volunteerism in Ghana before independence and the immediate post-
independence period was quite vibrant and almost natural amongst citizens
and in most cases, unsolicited. Majority of these volunteers were the youth.
However, in recent times youth volunteerism has dwindled and there seems
not to be any clear indication of change for the better. The situation has been
blamed on weak and uncommitted leadership, economic hardship, perceived
corruption, diminishing social support systems, loss of communalism,
patriotism and nationalism, lowering and disregard for family values and
limited incentives for future progress (reward of jobs, scholarships, etc. for
volunteers).
100. In championing the course of volunteerism, a number of institutions and
organisations such as Voluntary Work-camps Association of Ghana (VOLU), the
Coalition of Volunteering Organisations, Ghana (COVOG), the National Service
Personnel Association under the National Service Scheme and the National
Youth Authority (NYA) are playing significant roles in promoting volunteerism
in Ghana. However, in as much as these efforts of stakeholders are laudable,
there is the need to reinforce collaboration and coordination.
1.4.4.4 Youth Conflict and Peace-Building

101. Many social scientists and human development practitioners hold the view
that conflict is a natural phenomenon and therefore cannot be completely
eradicated in the human endeavour. It is positive when it seeks to register
contrary views and postulates options or alternatives for the better
achievement of common purpose. However, conflict becomes problematic
when the intended purpose or outcome is destructive to development and
brings chaos or anarchy.
102. Negative conflicts impede socio-economic growth, destabilise Nations with
ramifications of injuries, destruction of properties, displacement of people,
and death. In Ghana, common causes of violent conflicts include chieftaincy,
political power, inter-ethnic conflict, land disputes, affections or associations,
and religion.
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103. On the other hand, peacebuilding bridges the gap that might have been
created by wanton or violent upheavals resulting from conflicts. In some
uncertain situations, peacebuilding can be preventive; taking proactive
actions to maintain existing peace or promote activities and programmes
that promote peace among people, societies or States. Primarily, the aim of
the UN, the AU and as in Ghana, the National Peace Council is the resolution,
maintenance and promotion of peace.
104. Even though Ghana enjoys relative peace, the emergence of conflicts around
the country seeks to undermine peaceful coexistence. Most regrettably, the
youth, the future of the country, are either perpetrators or victims of these
conflicts. In some bizarre situations, they are nearly used as instruments of
violence. The involvement of the youth is more eminent in conflicts involving
land, chieftaincy, politics, religion, and recently sports.
105. The high rate of unemployment coupled with high level of intolerance,
indiscipline, lack of transparency, breakdown of the social value system,
anxiety, depression, exposure to violent extremism, indoctrination, mistrust
for leadership and lack of confidence in the conflict resolution systems are
prominent pull factors for youth involvement in these conflicts. However, the
emerging trends of few youth groups supporting in conflict resolution and
peacebuilding across the country is equally laudable and commendable.
106. Most of the conflict resolution mechanisms, strategies and processes have
been extensive, except for the necessity of intensifying the involvement of
the youth at all levels.
1.4.5 Cross-Cutting Issues and Youth Development Mainstreaming

107. Cross-cutting issues, generally deal with acceptable principles that enhance
human development and protection. It must be integrated and mainstreamed
through all stages of policy formulation to ensure that desired goals are
achieved. The concerns surrounding youth development and progress are
multi-faceted and multi-dimensional and thus, require collaborated and well-
coordinated solutions. Thus, a multi-sectoral approach is relatively the most
effective strategy for dealing with youth problems. Hence, issues such as
gender, disability, social protection, vulnerability, climate change and other
social exclusion factors should not only be viewed as cross-cutting but need
to be consciously mainstreamed into all interventions in order to achieve the
desired results.
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108. The Commonwealth Report on Youth Mainstreaming in Development

Planning (2017), emphasises the need for the mainstreaming of youth issues
as critical part of pursuing a vision for an egalitarian world. The publication
reiterates that mainstreaming helps to embed young people’s aspirations
into development planning and ensure equality between youth and adults.
It connects democracy initiatives to equitable development outcomes for
young people and communities.
109. The focus of youth mainstreaming is on:
• Ensuring youth-centric institutions and processes in development
planning within and across all sectors to realise equitable development
for youth and society.
• Ensuring youth participation in all spheres and levels of development
planning, without which, positive and equitable outcomes for youth are
not possible.
• Acknowledging the implications of inter-generational relations among
youth and adults, and young people’s unique developmental rights and
evolving capacities in conceiving and delivering policies and plans for
them.
110. The review of this policy leading to relevant actions ascribe to the
aforementioned as has been duly related to stakeholder discussions.
1.4.5.1 Demographic Dividend and Youth Statistics

111. The concept of Demographic Dividend presupposes that state and non-state
actors could take concrete steps to harness the advantages of the youth
bulge to direct their collective energy, talents and enthusiasm for accelerated
national development.
112. According to the 2020 Population and Housing Census (PHC), Ghana’s
population age structure is transitioning from one dominated by children (0-
14 years) to one dominated by young people (15-35 years): The proportion of
children declined from 41.3 percent in 2000 to 35.3 percent in 2021, while that
of young people increased from 34.6 percent in 2000 to 38.2 percent in 2021.
The rapid youth population growth could hinder or promote socio-economic
growth depending on the interventions put in place by stakeholders. The
large youth population could be mobilised to support productive sectors of
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the economy, create wealth and deliver critical social services to the citizenry.
However, the neglect of this critical mass of the population could certainly be
injurious to development and adversely affect the future of Ghana.
113. Moreover, an enabling environment needs to be created for the youth to
acquire critical productive skills, a sense of civic responsibility, patriotism,
volunteerism, discipline, and engage in healthy living life styles, which is
lacking in many circumstances.
114. Meritoriously, several institutions and organisations are striving in both
planning and programme implementation to take advantage of this youth
bulge, an essential resource. Even though some dividend has been achieved,
the level of reinforcement, mobilisation and expansion of strategies and
resources seems challenging and inadequate.
1.4.5.2 Vulnerability and Social Inclusion

115. Development endeavours involve the consideration of varied human
perspectives essential for societal harmony and existence. Society is made
up of diverse social groupings whose respective interest ensure responsive,
inclusive, participatory and, representative decision-making at all levels.
116. In many situations, interventions targeted at the youth do not often
benefit a good number of them, leading to low success rates. This could be
attributed to gender inequality, disabilities, vulnerability and social exclusion.
118. However, the Rio+20 Conference Outcome Document, ‘the Future We
Want’, recognises among others, that creating opportunities to influence
people’s lives and future requires their participation in the decision-making
process as fundamental for sustainability. This is increasingly lacking in many
situations of our review, even though substantial resources are invested in
promoting maximum social inclusion.
119. n Ghana, many development interventions, including social, economic,
political and religious programmes seek to guarantee that vulnerable groups
are integrated in all processes and that the benefits are cut across and
directed at specific needs. The socio-economic transformation, embarked by
governments, mainly targets gender parity as a major concern for redress.
Efforts are being made to ensure women have equal balances as their male
counterparts at important decision-making levels, such as public services,
private enterprises, traditional institutions and national politics.
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120. A chunk of these interventions is targeted at the youth. Even though, available
data suggests significant improvement in gender parity among the youth in
the targeted areas, the teeming numbers and other socio-cultural barriers
militate against the desired rapid results expected. The situation is even more
precarious as imbalances in the system are considered. For example, gender
parity is more pronounced in education, general public sector services, and
micro and small-scale businesses. However, the phenomenon deteriorates in
leadership roles and top decision-making positions.
121. Ghana’s commitment to the United Nations and other international
conventions and protocols enjoins her to ensure that the welfare of persons
living with disabilities is not only heightened but also, integrated in all national
development agenda. Yet, there are varied development interventions that
consciously or unconsciously fail to conform to these obligations or produce
the desired results.
122. The United Nations 2018 “World Youth Report: Youth and the 2030
Agenda for Sustainable Development” made the following observations:
• Unemployment among persons with disabilities exceeds 80 per cent in
some countries.
• Educational disadvantage experienced by young people with disabilities
inevitably has a negative impact on their employment prospects.
• Young people who are able to secure employment tend to work in low-
paying or informal jobs.
• Globally, there are strong links between disabilities, poverty and, the
lack of access to decent work.
• Unemployment rates are high among young people with disabilities, in
part because they are less able to secure access to quality education that
meets their specific accessibility needs.
• For young people with disabilities who are economically active, finding
quality employment that matches their skill level is a constant struggle—
one with its roots in persistent social biases and negative perceptions
regarding the capacity of persons with disabilities to perform in a
competitive workplace.
• Young people with disabilities entering or in the workforce are doubly
disadvantaged, as they are up against negative perceptions and
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stereotypes.
123. The situation in Ghana is not extremely different from the above observations.
Young people living with disabilities are disadvantaged even in social activities
such as sports, marriage, and headship. Additionally, the supporting materials,
gadgets, equipment and other supporting devices and institutions to enhance
the integration of disabilities are either weak, inadequate or non-existent. For
instance, though adaptive and assistive technologies exist for young people
living with disabilities, accessibility is limited.
124. Apart from these explicit exclusions, some development interventions
generate projects and activities that results in vulnerabilities of young persons
as their unintended consequences results in adverse outcomes for young
persons. This analysis further reveals that young people who are engaged in
domestic work, itinerant work and head portage (“kayayee”) are more prone
to vulnerability in terms of economic and social exploitation.
1.4.5.3 Social Protection

125. Social protection, generally with the aim of tackling poverty and protecting
vulnerable group from risk and unintended consequences of socioeconomic
dynamics and policy deficiencies, forms the basis for secured and acceptable
living. Thus, stronger societies develop aggressive systems aimed at protecting
and supporting vulnerable groups to live actively and happily.
126. Traditionally, Ghana is known to have had family and community social
protection safety nets. The families and communities provided security
and other basic needs whiles governments supported with the enabling
environment. This collaborative effort, has been effective but unfortunately
began deteriorating as the extended family system continuously give way to
the nuclear family system. This negative phenomenon is even worse in urban
areas compared to the rural areas.
127. In order to bridge this gap and reduce poverty and inequality in Ghana,
governments instituted measures such as the National Health Insurance
Scheme (NHIS), the Livelihood Empowerment Against Poverty (LEAP),
Capitation Grant, Free Senior High School, School Feeding Programme,
Microfinance and Small Loans Centre (MASLOC), portion of the District
Assemblies Common Fund (DACF) for People Living with Disabilities (PWDs),
among others.
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128. Even though these measures are yielding positive results, their desired
impacts are yet to be realised as increasing vulnerabilities among the youth
population confront limited resources.
1.4.5.8 Youth and Crime

129. Peace and security are prerequisites for development, harmony and social
cohesion, but, invariably, this is hampered by the incidence of crime and
juvenile delinquency. This is evident by the frequency of youth crime reportage
on various media platforms. Notably, the incidence of violent behaviours such
as murder, armed robbery, gang-related violence, neighbourhood-riots, cyber-
crime, kidnapping and abductions have become prevalent among young
people in the Ghanaian society. In addition, other deviant behaviours such as
ritual killings for money (“sakawa”), religious extremism, fraud among others
are also incidences reported among the youth.
130. The impacts of these vices pose serious threats to public safety and national
security. The emerging trend is a grave challenge to the security services,
social welfare, prisons and other stakeholders whose mandate border on
national security and public safety.
131. The issues of poverty, destitution, hunger, gender inequality, poor education
and training, substance abuse and unemployment are among the push and
pull factors that drive the youth into crime and other deviant behaviours.
1.4.5.9 Culture, Religion and Tourism

132. Ghana is home to many different beliefs, traditions, languages and religions.
This diversity is reflected in the youth demographic. Generally, there exists
diversity in religion – the majority self-identify as Christians (71.2 percent)
followed by those who believe in Islam (17.6 percent), leaving only a small
minority adhering to traditional religions (5.2 percent); (GSS, 2013).
131. Both culture and religion have been identified as two fundamental aspects of
youth identity and serve to shape the relations between groups of different
ethnicities and their belief systems. It is instructive to note that Ghana for
many years, has been rediscovering the intrinsic values and aspirations of
the nation in order to form a post-colonial national identity. Unfortunately,
globalisation seems to draw the youth towards foreign culture, values and
attitudes. These behavioural tendencies in many cases are at variance with
the Ghanaian culture and traditions.
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132. The embracing of these cultural practices among the youth leads to the
following;
• Decline and adulteration of local languages,
• Change in sexual behaviour,
• Decline in extended family system,
• Decline in social protection safety net,
• Gradual elimination or disregard for the Ghanaian value system.
133. Cultural practices such as the inheritance system and the belief that young
people do not have the requisite capacity to manage their own affairs but
must depend on the elderly, as in some circumstances, has the potential of
denying the youth of their rights and privileges. Respect for the elderly, as an
ordained principle, and rightly so, guides the process of youth development
by putting a naturally assumed responsibility on elders to support the youth
through counselling, guidance, mentorship and coaching. However, our
review finds that an over-exercise of this power of respect denies the youth
the opportunity of questioning un-understandable situations, thereby denying
them of the opportunity from learning from experiences. This may result in
the formation of low confidence, less curiosity, low self-esteem, apathy, less
proactive in challenging the status quo and breeding of corrupt and deviant
youth.
134. In Ghana, religion plays a significant role in unifying the society, bridging
cultural, ethnic and tribal barriers. There is also inter-faith collaboration. These
are suitable grounds for youth cohesion and development. Most faith-based
institutions provide livelihood supporting services to the youth which include;
• Career Services: - Guidance and Counselling, Leadership and Managerial
Training
• Education: - Skills Development, Entrepreneurship Training, Scholarships,
Sponsorships
• Health: - Special Packages for Health Services, Education and Sensitisation
on Health Issues
• Social Protection: - Shelter, Food, Clothing, Vulnerable Situations,
Mobility Aids/Gadgets
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135. Despite the laudable contribution of religion to the development of the youth,
certain religious practices hinder progress. For instance, the over-orientation
of the youth to believe that wealth can be achieved solely through spiritual
interventions, does not develop positive minds of the youth for hard-work,
smart thinking, creativity and innovation. This has the potential of promoting
laziness, waywardness, crime, ‘‘get rich quick’’ attitude and a sense of
irresponsibility.
136. Inter-connected with religion and culture is tourism. Ghana is blessed with a
huge tourism potential that when developed and promoted, would contribute
significantly to the advancement of our culture, generate employment
and create wealth for the youth as well as increase revenue for economic
development. Tourism can also bring about immense exposure of the youth,
broaden their understanding of cross-cultural issues, and promote national
unity and cohesion.
137. Our review indicates huge interest of the youth in domestic tourism and
cross-national tourism but highlighted constraints such as poor development
of tourist sites, cost of tourism, poor road networks, threat of harm, and
insecurity.
138. Culture, Religion and Tourism remain relevant for the socio-economic
development of the youth. However, there are intrinsic and extrinsic issues as
aforementioned and many others that need to be addressed to make them
maximally useful for the youth.
1.4.6 Institutional Framework for Youth Development in Ghana

139. Effective and efficient youth development are a function of comprehensive
framework and an institutional arrangement of stakeholders with clearly
defined roles and responsibilities aimed at ensuring that policies and
programmes are well-coordinated and concerted actions harmonised for the
achievement of desired results.
140. Youth development is multi-dimensional, cutting across all sectors and
involving various stakeholders. In Ghana, achieving coordination and coherence
at policy and implementation levels, particularly in youth development, has
become a major challenge for governments and key stakeholders. This is
due to the existence of policy conflicts, duplication of functions/activities,
non-judicious utilisation of resources, and unhealthy competition among key
actors.
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141. Even though there is clear institutional setting such as a transition from
the Presidency, National Development Planning Commission (NDPC), the
Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) as well as the Metropolitan,
Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) and their sub-structures for
development planning and implementation, there appear to be limited
collaborative interface. Despite the definition of entry points for Development
Partners, Civil Society, Non-Governmental Organisations and other actors, the
implementation of programmes and activities remained unstreamlined and
highly uncoordinated.
1.4.7 Youth and the Future

142. The development of the youth must not only be based on national and
international aspirations but also, linked with the inspiration and the aspiration
of the youth themselves and the overall purpose that they arrogate to their
personal development and perceived well-being.
143. The Coordinated Programmes for Economic and Social Development Policies
(2017 - 2024), seek to create opportunities for effective youth participation in
all sectors and their positive influence in national socio-economic development
and political governance.
144. Coincidentally, the preamble of African Youth Charter acknowledges the
following:
• Increasing calls and the enthusiasm of youth to actively participate at
local, national, regional and international levels to determine their own
development and the advancement of society at large.
• The call in Bamako (2005) by the youth organisations across Africa to
empower youth by building their capacity, leadership, responsibilities
and provide access to information such that they can take up their
rightful place as active agents in decision-making and governance.
145. Additionally, the AU Agenda 2063 envisions that “By 2063, Africa will be a
continent where all citizens will be actively involved in decision-making
in all aspects of development, including social, economic, political and
environmental. Africa will be a continent where no child, woman or man
will be left behind”, whiles the United Nations Youth Strategy (Youth 2030)
has the objective as “The strategy aims to facilitate increased impact
and expanded global, regional and country-level action to address the
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needs, build the agency and advance the rights of young people in all
their diversity around the world and to ensure their engagement and
participation in the implementation, review and follow-up of the 2030
Agenda for sustainable development as well as other relevant global
agendas and frameworks”.
146. The Strategy also envisions “A world in which the human rights of
every young person are realised; that ensures every young person is
empowered to achieve their full potential; and that recognises young
people’s agency, resilience and their positive contributions as agents of
change”, with five Priority Areas; thus,
• Engagement, participation and advocacy – amplify youth voices for the
promotion of a peaceful, just and sustainable world
• Informed and healthy foundations – support young people’s greater
access to quality education and health services
• Economic empowerment through decent work – support young people’s
greater access to decent work and productive employment
• Youth and human rights – protect and promote the rights of young
people and support their civic and political engagement
• Peace and resilience building – support young people as catalyst for
peace and security and humanitarian action.
147. A comprehensive analysis of the findings of the review leading to the
formulation of this policy reveals that, the aspirations and general orientation
of the youth of Ghana are in great consonance with the aforementioned
national and international aspirations. The herculean challenge of being
the future of the nation and at a global level is apparently conceptualised
and internalised. However, the enabling attracting and pushing factors
such as coaching, mentoring, modelling, counselling and guidance, as well
as deliberate planning and implementation of succession programmes and
policies seem problematic.
1.5 SWOT Analysis

148. The youth constitute an important segment of Ghana’s population and
therefore any investment towards harnessing this demographic dividend has
the potential to contribute to a more sustainable and resilient economy. To
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achieve the desired results, a thorough assessment of prevailing strengths,

weaknesses, opportunities, and threats that can positively or negatively affect
outcomes were identified.
149. The SWOT Analysis highlighted key factors, which have been considered in
the development of this National Youth Policy as a strategic document. It
exposes the immense advantages that can be derived from harnessing this
great potential human resource, as an important niche ready for emerging
technologies.
1.5.1 SWOT Analysis of Youth Situation in Ghana
Strengths Weaknesses
• Growing youth population • Restrictive knowledge
• Creativity and innovation • Weak entrepreneurial skills
• High ICT orientation • High illiteracy rates
• A corps of trainable Youth • Misconceived ideas
• High passion for success • Lack of financial literacy
• Energetic and vibrant • Low orientation in sexual and
reproductive health
• High academic qualifications
• Low self-esteem
• High talents
• Poor knowledge of labour market
• Adaptable and adoptable
• Loss of patriotism and nationalism
• Resilient
• Immense entrepreneurial interest
Opportunities Threats
• Availability of information and • Drug trafficking, human trafficking,
communication technology and money laundering
infrastructure
• Harmful cultural practices
• Government commitment to
• Existence of parallel institutions
international protocols and
conventions • Natural disasters, pandemics and
climate change
• Platforms for entrepreneurial
benefits e.g. AfCFTA • Limited job opportunities
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• Commitment of Development • Fragility, conflict and violence

Partners to youth initiatives
• Unregulated drugs and hard
• Ghana’s high global image substance
• Available resources at decentralised • Negative indoctrination
level for youth programmes and
• Insecure borders
initiatives
• Political instability in neighbouring
• Multiple platforms for youth
countries
advocacy
• Unmonitored and unevaluated
• Inherent or intrinsic socio-cultural
programmes
values for youth development
• Mismatch between education
• Existence of Technical Vocational
curricula and the job market
Education and Training (TVET)
demand
institutions
• Low private sector development
• Diverse youth support programmes
• Low economic expansion
• Availability of youth-oriented
initiatives • Limited financial support for the
youth
• Stable democracy
• Inadequate resources
• High tolerance of diversity
• Weak family and social support
systems
• Weak enforcements
• Mismanagement and corruption
• Political, economic and social
inequalities
• Weak engagement platforms
• Social exclusion
• Data unavailability, inaccuracy and
unreliability
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1.5.2 SWOT Analysis of Youth Interventions
Strengths Weaknesses
Policy interventions • Poor coordination
• Constitution of the Republic of • Ineffective institutional collaboration
Ghana
• Irregularity of resources
• National Youth Authority Act 2016,
Act 939 • Weak monitoring and evaluation
• Youth Employment Agency Act mechanisms
2015, Act 887 • Poor communication and
• Ghana National Service Scheme Act engagement
1980, Act 426
• Difficulty in accessing financial
• Ghana Enterprises Agency Act resources
2020, Act 1043
• Red tapeism and stereotyping
• Local Governance Act 2016, Act
936 • Skills mismatch
• Persons with Disability Act 2006,
Act 715
• Coordinated Programmes for
Economic and Social Development
Policies (2017 - 2024)
• National Employment Policy 2015
• National Social Protection 2016
• National Migration Policy 2016
• National Labour Migration Policy
2020
• National Health Policy 2020
• National Entrepreneurship and
Innovation Programme
• Youth in Agriculture Programme
• Nation Builders’ Corps
• Planting for Food and Jobs
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• Covid-19 Alleviation and Enterprises

Support (Ghana CARES “Obaatan
pa” Programme)
• African Youth Charter
• Sustainable Development Goals
Institutional Structures
• Ministry of Youth and Sports
• National Youth Authority
• Ghana Youth Federation
• Ghana Education Service
• Technical, Vocational Education and
Training Service
• Chamber of Young Entrepreneurs
Opportunities Threats
• Decentralised structures • Unhealthy competition
• High mobile telephone penetration • Duplicating efforts
• Support from Development • Underemployment and
Partners unemployment
• Interference
• Wars and conflicts
1.6 Key Policy Issues

150. In view of the above, this policy would address the following key issues:
• High rates of unemployment among the youth, particularly graduates
and persons with disabilities.
• Lack of timely labour market information and comprehensive active
labour market services.
• High rates of poverty and vulnerability among the youth.
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• Financial exclusion among young people.

• Increasing irregular migration and abuse of young migrant workers.
• The gap between knowledge acquired and industry requirement.
• Inadequate professional trainers, leisure parks, and sporting facilities for
the youth.
• Inadequate education and services for sexual and reproductive health,
substance abuse, HIV & AIDS, and limited use of contraceptives.
• Recruitment and training of young people into factional groups, disputes
and conflicts.
• Limited infrastructure and supporting systems for the promotion of
healthy life styles among the youth.
• Poor nutritional status among young parents and their children.
• Abuse of social media, security, illegal mining, theft and kidnapping.
• Inadequate conscientisation about the effects of climate change among
the youth and limited structures for the development of “green” skills
and climate resilient innovations.
• Weak structures and lack of incentives to develop the craft and creativity
of the youth for sustainable livelihoods.
• Weak sense of patriotism, volunteerism and civic responsibility among
the youth.
• Limited utilisation of the potentials of ICT for innovative solutions,
economic growth and decent job creation.
• Inadequate measures to address social, political and economic
marginalisation of young women and girls.
• Increasing social, political and economic marginalisation of young
persons with disabilities and other vulnerabilities.
• High incidence of youth in crime and inadequate reformative services.
• Inadequate participation of the youth in political governance, community
development and decision-making.
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• Inadequate systems and structures for youth development at all levels.

• Prevalence of violence against the youth, particularly women and young
persons with disabilities.
• Limited access to legal representation and counsel for juveniles “in-
conflict-with-the law”.
• Ineffective involvement and participation of the youth in international
affairs
• Minimal sense of responsibility of the youth on their omissions and
commissions
• Weak formalisation of youth groupings
• Lack of formalised mentoring and coaching, guidance and counselling
structures and systems
• Lack of mechanisms to track the progress of youth achievers
• Lack of accurate, reliable and segregated data on youth development
1.7 Scope of the Policy

151. The Policy provides a framework for the coordination, collaboration and
facilitation of all interventions aimed at improving the welfare and development
of the youth (15 to 35 years) in all spheres of life. Concurrently, in the
fast-changing world with increasingly advanced technology, coupled with
huge talented youthful population, it focuses on strengthening institutional
capacities, facilitating innovation, creativity, value addition and the removal of
barriers to enable active participation of the youth in governance, leadership
and overall developmental affairs.
152. In the aforementioned context: persistent socio-economic dynamism,
the Policy addresses specific issues pertaining to economic and financial
empowerment of young people, youth health and well-being, training and
development, youth participation in governance, cross-cutting and youth
development mainstreaming, institutional framework for youth development
in Ghana and youth and the future.
153. The Policy which spans for a period of ten years (2022-2032) is applicable to
National and Sub-national levels in Ghana, all Public Organisations, National
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and Sub-national officers, the Private Sector, Development Partners, Non-State

Actors, Ghana Youth Federation, Youth-focused and Youth-led organisations,
and Individual Youth.
1.7 Youth Profile in Ghana

154. The current youth population in Ghana has some unique diversification
with specific needs, challenges and opportunities for each cohort group. For
instance, the Ghana 2021 PHC Provisional Report indicate that young people
(15-35 years) are more in urban (60.5%) than rural areas (39.5%) with an
accumulated reduced transition from children to young people as the report
states “the transitioning of the population from children to young people
is evident in all regions and in urban areas. In urban areas, Greater
Accra depicts the most pronounced transition while in rural areas across
all the regions, the transition is yet to occur”; as in previous submissions.
The composition of young people in Ghana is detailed below:
Composition of Young People in Ghana by Sex
Age Range Male (%) Female (%) Total (%)

15 - 19 10.9 10.6 21.5
20 - 24 9.5 9.6 19.1
25 - 29 8.3 8.7 17.0
30 - 34 7.6 7.8 15.4
Total 36.3 36.7 73.0
Source: 2021 PHC
155. The policy considered other special categorisations for relevance of planning
and programming youth interventions to include:
i. Male and Female
ii. Skilled and Unskilled Youth
iii. In-school and Out-of-school
iv. Rural and Urban
v. Literate and Illiterate
vi. Engaged and Idle
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vii. Employed and Unemployed, Under-employed

viii. Sheltered and Unsheltered
ix. Married and Single
x. Migrant and Non-migrant
xi. Detained and Non-detained
xii. Challenged and Unchallenged
xiii. Adolescents and Young adults
xiv. Organised and Unorganised
1.8 Policy Review Process

156. The process of developing this policy was rigorous, participatory and all-
inclusive. It involved all stakeholders in the youth development enterprise
with focus on the identification of gaps and areas for improvement in the
existing policy. Relevant findings were integrated into the succeeding policy
with the view to aligning its goals and aspirations with national development
agenda and international trends.
157. The consultative platforms were numerous and varied. Even though many
of these consultations were in-person workshops, seminars, symposia and
town hall meetings, virtual platforms were also employed. There were also
extensive expert and professional consultations with comprehensive desk
reviews of similar policies at sub-regional and international levels.
158. During the entire process, over 12,000 people from over 60 public and private
institutions, as well as, individuals were directly consulted. These included
representatives from Government, political parties, local government
institutions, traditional authorities, and youth development practitioners,
youth groups, academia, the private sector, development partners, CSOs,
NGOs, CBOs, FBOs and religious bodies. It is estimated that officers of the
Ministry of Youth and Sports and National Youth Authority spent over 52,715
work hours within 13-months. A Technical Committee was composed to
lead discussions, coordinate working teams and appointed individuals. The
composition of the final policy is a product of several reviews at national and
sub-national levels.
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1.9 Content and Structure

159. The content of this policy is situated in context and preferred in four
distinguished chapters characterising the nature of contemporary issues and
the direction of the agenda of Ghana, the empowerment of the youth and the
entry point of relevant stakeholders. In line with this, Chapter One deals with
the background, elicits comprehensive situational analysis, provides scope
of the policy and ends with a description of the content and structure of the
entire policy document.
160. Concurrently, Chapters Two and Three are prescriptive. Chapter Two in
particular, details the contextual underpinnings of the policy in national and
global perspective, provides rationale, and enumerates key objectives and
guiding principles with relevant legal frameworks stated. The processes
involved in the detailed stakeholder engagement for the development of
the policy are equally highlighted in the same Chapter. As a sequel, Chapter
Three propagates the policy objectives and specifies required strategies for
effective policy implementation.
161. As the last chapter, Chapter Four centres on the implementation arrangements.
It elaborates proposed structures adaptable for effective policy implementation
and the roles as well as responsibilities expected from key stakeholders.
Additionally, indicative funding sources for programmes and projects as well
as the tracking of achievements via monitoring and evaluation (M&E) are
provided in this chapter. The need for periodic policy review and sharing
results with key stakeholders arises and has been duly considered in this final
chapter.
162. Finally, there are supportive preliminary auxiliary context and content
proffered in this document which are not construed under the aforementioned
chapters, but are firmly arranged and serve as compliments at the pre and
post content of the entire policy document.
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CHAPTER TWO
POLICY CONTEXT
2.1 Introduction
163. The policy context discusses the relevant national and international
development dynamics that derive significant implications for the reviewed
policy being developed and implemented. Some legal requirements,
regulatory frameworks, international protocols and conventions, as well as
key national and international policies regarding youth development are not
just stated, but assessed to inform policy options. Ghana has signed on to
several protocols and conventions and by constitutional requirements, ratified
their legitimacy by parliamentary sovereignty. Consequently, the legal regime
and established policy framework relating to youth development, though
contextualised, is in line with these agreements and protocols.
2.2 Global and National Contexts

164. The Preface of the United Nations World Programme of Action for Youth (2010)
states “The United Nations has long recognized that the imagination,
ideals and energies of young people are vital for the continuing
development of the societies in which they live. The Member States
of the United Nations acknowledged this in 1965 when they endorsed
the Declaration on the Promotion among Youth of the Ideals of Peace,
Mutual Respect and Understanding between Peoples. Two decades
later, the United Nations General Assembly observed 1985 as the
International Youth Year: Participation, Development and Peace. It drew
international attention to the important role young people play in the
world, and, in particular, their potential contribution to development. In
1995, on the tenth anniversary of International Youth Year, the United
Nations strengthened its commitment to young people by directing the
international community’s response to the challenges to youth into the
next millennium. It did this by adopting an international strategy—
The World Programme of Action for Youth (WPAY) provides a policy
framework and practical guidelines for national action and international
support to improve the situation of young people. It contains proposals
for action, aiming at fostering conditions and mechanisms to promote
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improved well-being and livelihoods among young people. The WPAY

focuses in particular on measures to strengthen national capacities in the
field of youth and to increase the quality and quantity of opportunities
available to young people for full, effective and constructive participation
in society”.
165. Similarly, the Commonwealth Plan of Action for Youth Empowerment
(PAYE) 2006-2015 emphasised the relevance for governments,
development partners, youth networks and young women
and men as valued partners in youth development processes.
The PAYE assists member states to establish and maintain enabling conditions
that will allow young men and women to be empowered through to the
next decade and beyond. It encourages the application of the rights-based
approach to development. Thus, the need to ensure full participation of young
women and men in the development process.
166. Following this development, and with commitment to the AU Agenda 2063,
the African Plan of Action for Youth Empowerment (APAYE) was developed
to:
• Identify priority and strategic actions for youth empowerment in Africa
• Guide the development and implementation of high impact programmes
and policies. These include measures to accelerate action on key flagship
programmes and initiatives, and mainstreaming youth issues into work
across other sectors.
• Mobilise, convene and coordinate stakeholders at national, regional
and continental levels to work coherently and synergistically to achieve
youth empowerment outcomes on the continent.
• Monitor progress of youth empowerment to serve as a framework for
mutual accountability among key stakeholders. This will require support
from a strong research, monitoring and evaluation and learning agenda.
167. Article 12 of the African Youth Charter entreats State Parties to develop a
comprehensive and coherent national youth policy with the following
characteristics:
• Cross-sectoral in nature considering the interrelatedness of the challenges
facing young people;
• Informed by extensive consultation with young people and cater for
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their active participation in decision-making at all levels of governance

in issues concerning youth and society as a whole;
• Integrated and mainstreamed into all planning and decision-making as
well as programme development. The appointment of youth focal points
in government structures shall enable this process;
• Have mechanisms to address youth challenges which are framed within
the national development framework of the country;
• Provide guidelines on the definition of youth adopted and specify
subgroups targeted for development;
• Advocate equal opportunities for young men and for young women;
• Be informed by baseline evaluation or situation analysis for prioritising
issues for youth development;
• Adopted by parliament and enacted into law
• Have coordinating mechanisms that provide platform, as well as serve as
link for youth organisations to participate in youth policy development,
implementation, monitoring and evaluation of related programmes;
• Have time-bound and connected to national implementation programmes
and evaluation strategy with indicators, clearly outlined;
• Programme of action accompanied by adequate and sustained budgetary
allocation.
168. These protocols and agreements are being enforced and Ghana as a member
state to the UN, Commonwealth and the AU, is party to them. Ghana has also
signed and ratified the UN Convention on Rights of the Child, UN Convention
on Rights of Persons with Disabilities, and the Marrakesh Treaty that obliges
the Government of Ghana to ensure that the needs of PWDs are met to enable
them participate effectively in development. It also implements policies and
programmes aimed at achieving the SDGs by 2030.
169. In order to streamline development, the Coordinated Programme of
Economic and Social Development Policies (2017-2024) recognises the need
to review the conceptualisation and implementation of youth development
programmes. In addition, the National Medium Term Development Policy
Framework (2022-2025) by the National Development Planning Commission
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(NDPC) has aligned about 70 percent of its provisions to the United Nations
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) which has specific targets to be
achieved with the full participation of the youth, girls and women, persons
with disability and other vulnerable groups.
170. The National Youth Authority has been established; and in 2010 the National
Youth Policy of Ghana launched, but without an implementation plan until
2014. There were previous youth policy interventions that preceded the 2010
version. However, these did not address youth development as a matter of
human rights.
171. There are also existing programmes and policies that are designed with
the common purpose of addressing social and economic gaps in youth
development. Those currently pursued include Youth in Agriculture, Youth
in ICT, Youth Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme, Nation Builders’
Corps, National Service Scheme and Youth Afforestation Programme.
172. The overwhelming youth population confronted with huge unemployment
creates unfriendly situations such as crimes, illegal occupations of the youth
(illegal mining, prostitution, drug peddling, unlicensed gambling, cyber-crimes
etc.). The situation of increasing urbanisation creates immense pressure
on the youth to migrate to city centres and offshore in search of greener
pastures. 173. The prolonged drought and other natural disasters in many
parts of Ghana, the unfriendly land tenure system, stringent requirement for
financial assistance for establishment of businesses, intense competition for
opportunities as a result of globalisation, weakening social protection support
systems, delink between educational curriculum and job requirement among
others persist.
174. As Ghana becomes attractive by the level of its economic progress, as a middle
income country, characterised by fairly stable economy, stable democracy
and relative peace, the inflows of young people from neighbouring countries
(mostly politically unstable) is increasingly eminent and poses threat to
security. In this regard, the Strategic Plan of the National Security, considers
the teeming youth, if left unattended to, a threat to national security in the
near to distant future.
2.3 Legislative Frameworks

175. The provisions of this policy are guided by the contents of existing national
policies, legislations, international development frameworks, treaties,
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protocols, and conventions. Besides those discussed under (2.2), the following
are lists of the key ones:
i 1992 Constitution of the Republic of Ghana
ii Ghana Revenue Authority Act, 2009, Act 791
iii Environmental Protection Agency Act, 1999, Act 490
iv Immigration Act, 2000, Act 573
v The Immigration Regulations, 2001 (LI 1691)
vi Labour Act, 2003, Act 651
vii Persons with Disability Act, 2006, Act 715
viii National Labour Commission Regulations, 2006 (LI 1822)
ix Labour Regulation, 2007 (LI 1833)
x National Pensions Act, 2008, Act 766
xi The Petroleum Commission Act, 2011, Act 821
xii Public Procurement Act, 2012, Act 663
xiii Alternative Dispute Resolution Act, 2010, Act 798
xiv Ghana Investment Act, 2013, Act 865
xv National Youth Authority Act, 2016, Act 939
xvi Youth Employment Agency Act, 2016, Act 887
xvii Technology Transfer Regulations, 1992 (LI 1547)
xviii Factories, Offices and Shops Act (FOSA) 1970 Act 328
xix Workmen’s Compensation Law, 1987 PNDCL 187
xx Ghana AIDS Commission Act 2016, Act 938
xxi Public Private Partnership Act 2020, Act 1039
xxii Cybersecurity Act 2020, Act 1038
xxiii Ghana Enterprise Agency Act 2020, Act 1043
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xxiv Ghana Education Trust Fund Act 2000, Act 581

xxv Ghana Export Promotion Authority Act 1969, Act 396
176. The following policies make provisions that are coherent to this National
Youth Policy (2022-2032):
i Coordinated Programmes for Economic and Social Development Policies
(2017-2024)
ii Ghana Industrial Policy, 2010
iii National Policy on Public Private Partnership, 2011
iv National HIV Workplace Policy, 2012
v Ghana National Urban Policy, 2012
vi Ghana National Environment Policy,2013
vii Ghana National Climate Change Policy, 2013
viii National Local Economic Development Policy, 2013
ix National Decentralisation Policy Framework, 2015
x National Employment Policy, 2015
xi Ghana National Housing Policy, 2015
xii National Social Protection Policy, 2016
xiii National Migration Policy, 2016
xiv Labour-intensive Public Works Policy, 2016
xv National Labour Migration Policy, 2020
xvi Ghana Trade Policy, 2018
xvii National Health Policy 2020
xviii National HIV&AIDS Strategic Plan (NSP 2021-2025)
xix National Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises and Entrepreneurship
Policy
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xx National Rural Development Policy, 2019

xxi Sustainable Development Goals
2.3.1 Legal Foundation for the National Youth Policy

177. The authority for the origination of policy in Ghana is the Executive, headed
by the President. Thus, public policies are propagated by the Executive and
implemented by sector agencies. The Ministry of Youth and Sports is the
apex of the sports and youth development sub-sector in Ghana. It is part of
its core functions to assist the Executive in the formulation of policies that
will guide the development process. As a Civil Service institution, Section 2
of Act 327 provides that the Service functions to assist Government in the
formulation and implementation of government policies for the development
of the country. This mandate is placed on the Ministry under Section 13 of
Act 327. Thus, the preparation of this policy document falls in line with the
mandate of the Ministry of Youth and Sports overall deliverables. However,
implementation will be coordinated by the National Youth Authority.
178. The policy development cycle spans problem identification and analysis
through monitoring and evaluation to policy review. The 2010 National Youth
Policy provides that periodic reviews be undertaken after every five years of
implementation. The 2022-2032 National Youth Policy fulfils this obligation.
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CHAPTER THREE
POLICY FRAMEWORK
3.1 Introduction
179. The formulation of policies and their implementation must be fully guided
with a clear purpose and direction. The vision, simplified by the goals and
objectives in specific themes, facilitates understanding of the nature and
quality of desired aspirations for youth development. The cardinal principles,
underlying planning and execution are deemed necessary and accordingly
illustrated.
3.2 Vision
180. The 2022-2032 National Youth Policy envisions:
“EMPOWERED YOUNG GENERATION, CREATING SUSTAINABLE OPPORTUNITIES
FOR DEVELOPMENT”
181. This vision, emanating from several stakeholder discussions serves as
motivation for public investment, key stakeholder planning, designing and
implementation of youth interventions. It provides a central focus for all
push and pull factors for the overwhelming youth to aspire in their quest
to develop themselves, accept responsibilities and desire to achieve their
aspirations in a humble, just, fair, peaceful, transparent and accountable
manner. The purposes of state and other key stakeholders’ responsibility
for youth development is clearly encapsulated in the “Empowered Young
Generations”.
182. This vision is intended to be transported to its desired destination by the
theme:
“BENEFIT FOR YOUTH INVOLVE YOUTH: TOGETHER FOR A PROSPEROUS FUTURE”
3.3 Goal
183. The overall goal of this policy is:
“TO DEVELOP CREATIVE AND INNOVATIVE YOUTH APPROPRIATELY EQUIPPED WITH
SENSE OF RESPONSIBILITY, PATRIOTISM AND NATIONAL PRIDE WITH ADVANCED
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TECHNOLOGY RELEVANT FOR NATIONAL AND GLOBAL DYNAMICS”

184. This goal, extending from that espoused in the 2010 National Youth Policy and
its achievement, embraces the future desired position of the state of Ghana
regarding the youth. It also takes into consideration resource availability,
technology, the future of development and changing demographics.
3.4 Key Objectives

185. In order to achieve the overall goal of this policy, the following key policy
objectives would be pursued by Government, Ministries, Departments and
Agencies, Municipal, Metropolitan and District Assemblies, Private Sector,
Development Partners, Civil Society and other stakeholders:
• To promote decent job creation, employability and livelihood
empowerment for the youth.
• To promote universal health coverage, inclusive health service delivery,
healthy lifestyles and total wellbeing of the youth.
• To develop institutional capacities and schemes that support youth skills
transfer, creativity and innovation.
• To enhance the participation of the youth in governance, community
development, decision-making, and elevate their sense of civic
responsibility.
• To establish institutional framework for coordination of youth development
interventions and mainstreaming.
• To promote the fundamental human rights, physical and reformative
development of young persons, including young women and young
persons with disabilities, at all levels.
• To develop resilient and self-reliant youth.
• To facilitate the participation of youth in international affairs.
• To promote a quota system to enhance access of the youth to
opportunities.
• To strengthen coordination through monitoring and evaluation of youth
interventions.
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3.5 Core Values

186. The policy vision, broad goals and objectives cannot be sustained without
embracing and enforcing core values that are sincerely dear to the tenets
of positive and multiple beneficial results. In this regard, the 2022 – 2032
National Youth Policy will promote:
• Discipline
• Excellence
• Honesty
• Team spirit
• Learning
• Knowledge
• Service
• Selflessness
• Hard work
• Global
3.6 Guiding Principles

187. This policy is formulated on the following general and core principles.
The general principles are:
• The Government of Ghana recognises that sustainable development
requires a constantly improved human capital.
• The Government of Ghana is aware that a well-disciplined and skilful
youth is an asset for national development.
• Since the youth of today are leaders of tomorrow, the state has the absolute
obligation to equip them with the knowledge, skills, competence and
leadership required to meet the development challenges of tomorrow.
• That effective intervention is a Shared Responsibility of all stakeholders,
that the youth, the prime beneficiaries of the policy must take maximum
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responsibility and interest in their success and optimally support full

implementation of interventions.
• All countries globally, are turning to the development of the youth as a
catalyst to sustain their development. Ghana cannot be left out of this
global phenomenon.
188. The core principles are:
• Gender equality: The Policy is formulated to ensure that men, women,
persons with disabilities and other vulnerable groups are supported,
mainstreamed and provided with equal opportunities to participate
in national development. This is to be achieved through appropriate
affirmative action.
• For ALL Ghanaian youth, everywhere: The policy is envisaged to be
implemented to achieve participation and access to services relevant to
the youth in all sectors and locations of the country. This is to ensure that
“No one is left behind”.
• Holistic, Competency and Transparency: Youth development initiatives
should encompass all aspects of a young person’s life. Youth workers and
other stakeholders must be competent in addressing youth development
issues. Institutions and organisations involved in youth development
should operate in a professional, transparent and accountable manner.
• Nothing for youth, without youth: This policy promotes a commitment
to the principles of non-tokenistic youth participation in national
development. It requires stakeholders to involve the youth in decision-
making, design, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of
programmes and interventions.
• Alignment with other national and international policies: This
NYP aligns itself to existing national development policies, relevant
international conventions, charters and development frameworks. It
recognises the roles of ALL stakeholders in youth development in Ghana.
• Outcomes and Results-focused: The NYP is structured to focus on
achieving results for Ghanaian youth. The expected results are outlined
in the policy outcomes.
• Positive youth development: Youth development would be pro-active,
targeted towards all youth, involving them as active participants and
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roping all members of the community to provide support services.

• Youth development mainstreaming: Government and stakeholders
would continue to include youth development in all policies and
implementation plans as short, medium to long-term development
approaches.
• Institutional collaboration and linkages: The NYP recognises unique
specialisation and associated constraints between and within institutions
and is determined to harmonise unique strengths and potentials for
the minimisation of weakness. It is determined to succeed through
institutional collaboration and linkages.
• Resource mobilisation and usage: The NYP recognises the essential role
of resource mobilisation and deployment for the success of interventions
and is determined to eliminate wastage.
• Data-driven interventions: It is envisaged that all planning, designing
and implementation of interventions would be based on accurate and
reliable data. It is believed that interventions formulated on evidence
will address core issues.
• Collective responsibility and ownership: The NYP will strive on the
willingness of all stakeholders to uphold and defend its existence. The
commitment of all stakeholders will promote ownership and sustain
investment.
• Continuity and persistence: The success of the NYP hinges on its
continuous implementation throughout its life period prescribed in the
analysis. Thus, it is designed to persist from political and administrative
changes and will fit well in core policy changes as cardinal dynamics in
youth development staggers.
3.7 Policy Preconditions

189. The success of this policy is envisaged to hinge on the following preconditions:
• Sustain investment in the youth by Government and the private sector.
• National Development Policy Frameworks over time must anchor
the concerns/issues of the youth and design specific strategies to
overcome them.
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• The State must make a deliberate attempt to imbue in the youth a

spirit of nationalism, patriotism, civic responsibility and a sense of
public service and morality.
• The youth will avail themselves to take advantage of the unfolding
development opportunities.
• Youth development is seen as an all-inclusive endeavour, therefore
the Private Sector, Civil Society Organisations (CSO’s) and Development
Partners are prepared to make conscious efforts to incorporate youth
development issues into their agenda.
• The existence of global frameworks that will guide the implementation
of the policy.
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CHAPTER FOUR
STRATEGIC POLICY ACTIONS
(Strategies to Achieve Key Policy Objectives)
4.1 Introduction
190. The key policy objectives outlined in chapter three constitute a breakdown
of the overall policy goal. However, operationalisation of these objectives
require implementers to pursue some strategic actions aimed at addressing
the policy issues. These actions guide implementation and drive activities to
achieve desired outcomes. In line with the intended objectives, the policy will
pursue Key Strategies being discussed below:
Objectives 1: To promote decent job creation, employability and livelihood

empowerment for the youth
191. Economic empowerment of the youth focuses on putting in place mechanisms
and structures that facilitate development of capacities and opportunities for
the youth, including young women and young persons with disabilities, to
enable them participate gainfully in the national, international and global
economies. These include innovative skills transfer, business development
assistance, provision of social security, rural development and poverty
reduction initiatives, establishment of active labour market support systems,
accelerated job creation, improved security at the workplace, enhanced
remuneration and conditions of service, strengthening of associations and
unions, among others. The aim is to promote economic independence and
prosperity of the youth. The strategies also include harnessing the benefits
of labour migration to enable the youth to engage in gainful livelihoods and
support national development.
192. The strategies for this policy objective are:
i. Accessibility to regular labour market services that highlight the needs of
the youth, young persons with disabilities and young women.
ii. Implementation of livelihood interventions towards ensuring the
independence of young persons in vulnerable situations.
iii. Facilitation of implementation of measures, including reforms in public
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procurement for accelerated decent job creation.

iv. Promotion of implementation of a youth enterprises classification system
for Business Development Services at all levels.
v. Implementation of schemes that facilitate safe placement of young
migrant workers for national development.
vi. Establishment of effective legal structures, frameworks and initiatives
for the protection of creative ideas and intellectual property of young
people.
vii. Establishment of facilitating systems and structures for commencement
and sustainability of entrepreneurship.
viii. Improvement of market accessibility and distribution systems for goods,
products and services of young entrepreneurs.
ix. Enhancement of partnership for business development of young people.
x. Promotion of local economic development and the sensitisation of young
persons on local potentials.
Objective 2: To promote universal coverage, inclusive health service delivery,

healthy lifestyles and total wellbeing of the youth
193. The ability of the youth to participate in national development is partly
dependent on good health. This policy objective therefore seeks to
implement measures that facilitate access to health services that meet the
health needs of the youth. This makes available information that promote
healthy lifestyles and informed healthy behaviour among young people. It
involves strengthening social support systems and collaboration between
key stakeholders to address issues of substance abuse, mental health and
stress. It includes promotion of leisure and recreational activities as part of
inculcating healthy living habits. It is equally important to ensure that safe
spaces, mentorship and coaching facilities are provided as essential part
of improving the health and wellbeing of the Ghanaian youth. It seeks to
incorporate nutritional needs of young parents and their children for redress
by the responsible state and non-state actors.
194. The following are the strategies required for the realisation of this policy
objective:
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i Implementation of an effective sexual and reproductive health structures

and systems beneficial to all young persons.
ii Implementation of programmes to reduce new infections and the
provision of support services to youth with Sexually Transmitted Infections
including HIV and AIDS.
iii Ensuring parity in service delivery in all health centres and accessible to
all young people.
iv Provision of adequate funding for youth responsive health services in the
national budget to ensure universal access by all young persons.
v Implementation of public education programmes and incentive schemes
to discourage early marriages and teenage pregnancies.
vi Promotion of inclusive sports, fitness and wellness lifestyles through
recreational activities at all levels.
vii Implementation of regulations to improve administration of mental
health, substance use, promotion and utilisation of restricted and/or
prohibited substances.
viii Adoption and implementation of a national strategy with a life-cycle
approach to address malnutrition at all levels.
ix Institutionalisation and strengthening of psycho-social support systems
and structures.
Objective 3: To develop institutional capacities and schemes that support

youth skills transfer, creativity and innovation
195. The youth, being the base of the labour force require the acquisition of
the necessary skills and attitudes that enable them to participate fully and
meaningfully in the economic transformation and political advancement
agenda of the country. This calls for bold and sustainable actions to achieve the
development and maintenance of human resources and intellectual capital
of youth in Ghana. In view of this, measures should be taken to improve
institutional capacities for innovative skills transfer and utilisation, including
green skills, access to Information and Communications Technology (ICT),
focusing on Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) and Artificial Intelligence. It also
includes broadening youth participation in sports and cultural activities as a
means of promoting positive values, behaviour and advancing their economic
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development. It is expected that young people will be empowered with life

skills that enable them to prepare for and benefit from national and global
economic opportunities, climate change and environmentally sustainable
projects and programmes.
196. The following are strategies to achieve this policy objective:
i Facilitation of access of the youth to advanced technical and vocational
education for innovative skills and technologies.
ii Implementation of the National Technical Vocational Education and
Training Qualifications Framework to include Recognition of Prior Learning
(RPL) in admissions or re-admissions in all districts.
iii Provision of state-of-the-art ICT Centres or laboratories in all Junior
and Senior High Schools, districts and communities, focused on Fourth
Industrial Revolution (4IR) skills and Artificial Intelligence integrating the
needs of PWDs as well as other marginalised groups.
iv Promotion of entrepreneurship education at all levels of education.
v Promotion of youth participation in climate action, environmental issues
and “greening” of education, including TVET.
vi Development of business skills for self-employment and employability
for all young persons.
Objective 4: To enhance the participation of the youth in governance,

community development, decision-making and elevate their sense of civic
responsibility
197. This key objective seeks to promote the participation of young people in
governance and decision-making processes at all levels in order to ensure
representation of their views and the elevation of their sense of civic
responsibility. The youth also possesses tremendous manpower required for
accelerated development. The strategies of this policy objective, therefore,
focus on promoting a democratic, stable and peaceful environment for
gender equity and equality of treatment for girls and young women, youth
with disabilities, youth at risk, and youth in special circumstances to enable
them participate fully in development. It also seeks to establish mechanisms
that would make the youth an integral part of conflict resolution efforts for
the promotion of peace and security in the communities.
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198. The following strategies would be operationalised to achieve this policy

objective:
i Implementation of measures that promote youth participation in
governance and decision-making, particularly, young women and young
PWDs.
ii Institutionalisation of structures and systems to ensure effective
participation and representation of youth, particularly young women and
young PWDs at all levels.
iii Implementation of sustained sensitisation and awareness creation
campaigns and programmes aimed at educating the youth on Youth-
related policies and programmes.
iv Promotion of pro-youth programmes and policies at all institutions and
levels, including political parties; and district, regional, national and
international movements.
v Promotion of the spirit of constructive nationalism, patriotism,
volunteerism, Pan-Africanism and community service among the youth.
vi Integration of conflict prevention, dispute resolution and peace-building
into formal and non-formal education programmes and promote security
consciousness among the youth.
vii Promotion of institutionalisation of mentorship, coaching, guidance and
counselling across public and private institutions at all levels
viii Promotion of programmes aimed at building community co-existence
and youth relations.
ix Revitalisation of community gatekeeping role on youth development.
Objective 5: To establish institutional framework for coordination of youth

development interventions and mainstreaming
199. Effective youth development is facilitated by a strong, efficient and well-
structured institutional framework at all levels. It requires setting professional
standards for personnel and institutions working in the youth development
sectors and establishing mechanisms to ensure compliance. It is important to
implement specific projects and programmes that are devoid of duplications
but integrated and interconnected with strong mainstreaming mechanisms.
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This policy objective therefore seeks to establish institutional structures and

regulatory frameworks to support implementation of overarching interventions that
would facilitate effective mainstreaming and management of youth development.
200. These strategies include:
i. Institutionalisation of mechanisms at all levels to support youth

mainstreaming and coordination of implementation.
ii. Promotion of professionalism in youth development practice.

iii. Harmonisation of all youth development activities.
iv. Establishment of Youth Development Fund.
v. Collaboration with relevant institutions for the alignment of all policies
and programmes in line with the National Youth Policy and the
Implementation Plan.
Objective 6: To promote the fundamental human rights, physical and

reformative development of young persons, including young women and
young persons with disabilities, at all levels
201. This policy objective seeks to protect and promote youth rights regardless of
race, gender, disability, sexual orientation, nationality, ethnicity, language,
religion, ability and other status without any form of discrimination - in
accordance with the 1992 constitution, laws and other international protocols
and conventions. It aims at the generation of sex and disability disaggregated
data on implementation of all interventions and provide reformative,
rehabilitative and recreational services to support integration of the youth
in the Ghanaian society. It seeks to ensure that all forms of discrimination
against the youth are removed and the youth actively participate in conflict
resolutions as well as promotion of peace and security in the communities.
202. The following strategies would be implemented towards achieving this policy
objective:
i. Implementation of a national roadmap on demographic dividend in line

with the provisions of this policy.
ii. Protection and promotion of the rights of the youth regardless of disability
and social status.
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iii. Strengthening of youth-focused reformative programmes for

rehabilitation and reintegration of youth-in-conflict with the law and ex-
detainees.
iv. Facilitation of the incorporation of youth development indicators in the

national census, surveys, and related data to facilitate diverse analysis of
youth-related issues.
v. Sensitisation of the youth against criminal activities and institutionalisation

of effective reformative programmes in correctional centres.
vi. Promotion of sensitisation and enforcement on rights of young vagrants

vii. Promotion of the enforcement of workplace ethics and code-of-conducts,
including policies and programmes aimed at eliminating the exploitation
of young people.
viii. Facilitation of the enforcement of structures and systems for fair pay of
young employees.
Objective 7: To develop resilient and self-reliant youth

203. The New World Order and contemporary challenges pose serious repercussions
on personal development and in some cases, youth businesses. The youth
in Ghana face multi-dimensional challenges that affect their businesses
and general welfare. The growing challenges in the fast changing world
make the youth vulnerable, disadvantaged and unable to cope with these
pressures. Lacking the capacity tools and support to handle these challenges,
the youth have become liable to shock and stress that affect their lifestyles,
relationships and businesses. The application of certain laws, rules and
regulations are generally legitimate and are meant to achieve goals in the
nature of national aspirations but may have the potential of affecting the
youth negatively. Climatic changes, disasters, wars, strikes and other civil
unrest or destructions have consequential effects on the youth and this could
be extremely disastrous.
204. This policy seeks to provide protection and build robustness for youth resilience
and self-reliance. In this regard, the policy strategies for this objective will
include:
i. Promotion of programmes and activities aimed at developing mental,
physical, and psychological resilience of the youth.
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ii. Support the implementation of rehabilitative structures and systems at

all levels.
iii. Development and promotion of adaptation and coping skills.
iv. Promotion of accessibility to assurance and insurance systems and
structures.
Objective 8: To facilitate the participation of youth in international affairs

205. The youth in Ghana have huge potential but require extensive exposure to
develop these potentials into lucrative ventures beneficial to themselves, the
nation and the world at large. Even though several opportunities have been
made available to the youth, it is commonly problematic when the required
knowledge, skills and competencies are lacking in order to take advantage
of these opportunities. This objective is aimed at providing the requisite
capabilities for the youth to participate meaningfully in the global arena.
206. Thus, the strategies to achieve this objective will be as follows:
i. Provision of relevant fora and platforms for knowledge transfer.
ii. Development and implementation of programmes aimed at building
competencies and confidence.
iii. Development and implementation of international collaborations and
networking.
Objective 9: To promote a quota system to enhance access of the youth to

opportunities.
207. This policy objective seeks to facilitate a national dialogue and ultimately
bipartisan roadmap for implementation of a youth quota system for Ghana.
The aim is to increase youth involvement in governance and all other sectors
of national life. It is also expected to make provision for reservation of ‘slots’
for employment opportunities at all levels, including the private sector.
The policy objective is to ensure ‘specific youth provision’ for local content
frameworks in all sectors of the economy.
208. The strategies to achieve this objective are:
i. Organisation of national dialogue among stakeholders to arrive at
feasible roadmap.
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ii. Implementation of agreed roadmap on the institutionalisation of the quota

system.
iii. Promotion of advocacy among stakeholders for commencement and ownership.
Objective 10: To strengthen coordination through monitoring and evaluation

of youth interventions
209. The National Youth Policy strategises to strengthen systems and structures
required to ensure that all youth interventions are in line with planned
implementation and achieving desired results with the youth as the central
focus. It will take effective monitoring and evaluation to ensure that this good
intention materialises.
210. Thus, the strategies for this objective will include:
i. Implementation of well-structured monitoring and evaluation plans at all
levels, linked to a masterplan.
ii. Establishment of robust system of data collection, storage and
management of youth-related interventions.
iii. Provision of platform for consistent stakeholder engagement.
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CHAPTER FIVE
POLICY IMPLEMENTATION ARRANGEMENTS
5.1 Introduction
211. The implementation arrangement and structures for the policy, highlights or
elaborates the roles and responsibilities of key institutions as well as the
resource mobilisation. These arrangements ensure effective implementation
of policy interventions as they eliminate role conflict and reduce redundancy.
Resource mobilisation plan provides guidance for sources of funding and the
mobilisation of the necessary human resource and other materials.
5.2 Implementation and Coordination

212. In order to prevent policy failures, a comprehensive Implementation Plan
is developed to facilitate policy implementation. The Implementation Plan
focuses on activities required for the operationalisation of the key policy
objectives and their strategies. It details the timeframes for carrying out
the activities within and without collaborating institutions. Since youth
development issues are multi-sectoral in nature, it is expected that the
implementation arrangements would ensure coherence and cooperation
among institutions. Implementation will require a significant demonstration
of political commitment and the dedication of leadership by all stakeholders
at all levels. Government would strengthen partnerships and networks
among all state agencies, the private sector, development partners, non-
governmental organisations, and civil society organisations for the effective
implementation of this Policy.
213. For the purposes of effective coordination, the Ministry of Youth and Sports
playing the oversight role, will oversee the National Youth Authority (NYA)
ensure that implementation is coordinated and outputs are delivered on time
so that outcomes are achieved in the stipulated timeframes for the benefit
of the youth. In view of this, NYA would establish new reporting lines and
strengthen existing ones in order to ensure seamless flow of information
throughout the period of implementation. It will also provide effective
institutional framework for collaborating and coordinating all activities
of stakeholders involved in the implementation of youth programmes
in Ghana. The NYA will therefore oversee the harnessing, promotion and
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supporting systems of government, development partners, and promoters

of youth programmes within the national and sub-national level of Ghana.
The coordination will emphasise on the harmonisation of activities and
programmes of both state and non-state actors.
214. Generally, the implementation process will include the development of
implementation plan that details strategies, activities, targets, responsibilities,
performance indicators, timelines as well as financial and non-financial
resource requirements. The coordination and implementation will
employ stringent approaches such as youth-oriented programming, youth
mainstreaming, intervention sustainability, professional delivery, knowledge
acquisition, show of evidence and skills transfer.
215. The Implementation Plan will be subject to formative (quarterly, mid-year)
and summative (annually) reviews. The detailed Implementation Plan is
attached as appendix one.
5.3 Institutional Arrangements for Implementation

216. Effective implementation of the National Youth Policy requires the collective
efforts of Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), Municipal, Metropolitan
and District Assemblies (MMDAs), the Private Sector, Development Partners,
Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), Religious Bodies and Non-Governmental
Organisations (NGOs). These institutions and organisations would lead or
collaborate with sister institutions for the implementation of specific policy
strategies and activities. The following is the list of key institutions and
organisations responsible for the operationalisation and implementation
of policy objectives and strategies, aligned to their respective roles and
responsibilities.
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Key Roles and Responsibilities
A. Ministries, Departments and Agencies

No. Institutions/ Key Roles and Responsibilities
Organisations
1. Ministry of Youth and MoYS or the Ministry responsible for youth
Sports development is responsible for the policy
oversight of the implementation of the National
Youth Policy.
2. National Youth NYA is responsible for the coordination of all
Authority implementation activities and implementation
of major youth development interventions that
promote interests of the youth as expressed
in this policy. It is also to ensure that youth
interventions are properly regulated in line with
the aspirations of the NYP.
3. Ministry of Finance It will manage the national budgeting processes
to promote youth development issues and
increase national budget allocations to youth
development projects and programmes on an
incremental basis. It will that fiscal policies in
such a way that impact positively on the youth.
4. National Development NDPC has oversight responsibility of the national

Planning Commission planning systems. It will be responsible for
ensuring that objectives of this policy are
mainstreamed into the medium term national
development frameworks and the results
systems for implementation by all state
agencies.
5. Ministry of MELR is responsible for policy oversight on
Employment and employment/labour related issues affecting
Labour Relations the youth and coordination of all job creation
interventions in both the public and private
sectors. MELR would ensure availability of labour
market information and active labour market
policies to support economic empowerment of
the youth.
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6. Ministry of Education MoE is responsible for policy oversight in

the education sector. MoE would collaborate
with all stakeholders to develop educational
programmes that meet the standards required
for the national and international markets.
7. Ministry of MESTI is responsible for policy oversight
Environment, Science, for the development of interventions that
Technology and promote the application of science, technology
Innovation and innovation to accelerate the national
development agenda. MESTI would collaborate
with other organisations to promote the
application of technology and innovation among
the youth.
8. Ministry of MOC&D would provide policy oversight for the
Communication and development of reliable and cost effective
Digitalisation up-to-date communication infrastructure and
services driven by appropriate technological
innovation accessible by the youth, including
young women and young persons with
disabilities for their economic empowerment at
all levels.
9. Ministry of Fisheries MFA is responsible for policy oversight for
and Aquaculture interventions aimed at effective management
of the fisheries sector and industries in it
for national development. The Ministry will
collaborate with relevant agencies to facilitate
the participation of the youth in fisheries
and aquaculture development as lucrative
employment.
10. Ministry of Food and MOFA is responsible for policy oversight for the
Agriculture development of interventions that support the
youth to engage in agriculture and agribusiness.
MOFA would collaborate with the private sector
and MMDAs to facilitate the development of
agriculture related businesses in the districts.
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11. Ministry of Health MOH is responsible for policy oversight for

the development of interventions that target
adolescent and youth health issues. MOH
would partner with government agencies at all
levels, practitioners and the private sector to
design, sponsor and direct the delivery of youth
responsive health services.
12. Ministry of Information In collaboration with all stakeholders, MOI would
lead information dissemination programmes
throughout the country through the Information
Services Department.
13. Ministry of the Interior MOI is responsible for policy oversight and
coordination of operations of internal security.
It would put in place measures to safeguard
the security of the youth in all spheres of the
national life.
14. Ministry of Justice and MoJOAG is responsible for legal oversight of
Office of the Attorney all issues relating to the implementation of
General the provisions of this policy. MoJOAG would
therefore offer legal advice on any issue that
may emerge in the course of implementation.
15. Ministry of Local MLGRD is responsible for policy oversight
Government, for ensuring good governance and balanced
Decentralisation and development of the MMDAs. It would therefore
Rural Development. coordinate the implementation of this policy at
MMDAs to ensure coherence and cooperation
of all stakeholders at the local level. In
collaboration with OHLGS and MMDAs, MLGRD
may initiate policies and programmes aimed at
integrating youth affairs and participation of the
youth in rural development.
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16. Ministry of Trade and MoTI is responsible for policy oversight for the
Industry development of trade relations and industries.
It would develop projects and programmes that
enable the youth to participate actively in the
industrialisation and economic transformational
policies of Government in collaboration with
private sector organisations. It would do this
taking into account the needs of young women
and young PWDs. It will also facilitate processes
for the youth to take advantage of AfCFTA.
17. Commission on Initiate measures to speed up investigation and
Human Rights and resolution of disputes relating to abuse of the
Administrative Justice rights of the youth within country.
18. Council for Technical, COTVET is responsible for coordinating all TVET
Vocational Education activities and ensuring that training programmes
and Training meet existing standards and quality. COTVET
would lead the full implementation of a
National Technical, Vocational Education and
Training Qualification Framework, and establish
a competency-based programme for technical
and vocational training institutions. COTVET
would lead all other interventions for the
improvement of TVET and access of the youth
and prescribed by this policy.
19. Department of It will be responsible for ensuring the protection
Social Welfare and safety of young vulnerable persons
and Community including young persons in foster homes,
Development rehabilitation and skills centres.
20. Office of the Release funds allocated to District Assemblies
Administrator of the for the implementation of projects and
District Assemblies programmes that promote youth development.
Common Fund Put in place mechanisms to ensure effective and
efficient use of the funds.
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21. Environmental EPA would collaborate with other state

Protection Agency institutions at the national, regional and district
levels to implement projects and programmes
that sensitise the young about climate change
issues, environmental sustainability and
development of “green” skills, technologies and
innovations. It will also quicken processes and
procedures for the certification of businesses
young people that require environmental
certification.
22. Extension Services ESD would provide technical and advisory
Department of the services to young farmers to adopt good
Ministry Food and farming practices. It would also direct and link
Agriculture young persons engaged in agriculture and
agribusiness to access support services.
23. Forestry Commission It will support the implementation of the policy
by encouraging livelihoods interventions for
young people in forestry.
24. Ghana Education Trust Provide all relevant educational assistance

Fund to institutions for the benefit of youth
development.
25. Ghana Education The GES will collaborate with all stakeholders
Service to implement educational curricula that meet
the standards required for the national and
international markets.
26. Ghana Export GEPA will institutionalise measures aimed at

Promotion Authority promoting the export of the products youth
enterprises.
27. Ghana Health Service GHS would supervise the delivery of health
services that target adolescent, sexual and
reproductive as well as mental health needs of
the youth. GHS would facilitate the delivery of
youth friendly services, paying attention to the
needs of young girls, women and PWDs.
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28. Ghana Immigration GIS would enforce immigration and emigration

Service laws to facilitate migration of the youth in
collaboration with other state institutions and
the private sector.
29. Ghana Investment GIPC will promote investment opportunities
Promotion Centre that attract businesses of young people for
investment. It will also facilitate the promotion
of the products and services of young
entrepreneurs.
30. Ghana Police Service GPS will reinforce its preventive and community-
friendly capacities to prevent the youth from
engaging in criminal activities and educate them
about the consequences of offending the law.
It will put in place measures to bring to book
those to who engage in trafficking and commit
violence against the youth and young persons in
vulnerable circumstances.
31. Ghana Prisons Service The Prisons Service will put in place measures
to ensure that youth in lawful custody are
rehabilitated through appropriate health
services, education, psycho-social services and
skill to become assets to society.
32. Mental Health MHA will implement laws, policies and
Authority programmes to promote awareness on general
mental health and substance abuse. MHA will
institute community-friendly mental health care
and rehabilitation services for young people.
It will also initiate programmes and activities
aimed at reintegrating recovered patients.
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33. Ghana Enterprises GEA will support initiatives for youth

Agency entrepreneurship development by collaborating
with other business development agencies,
business advisory services, youth organisation,
cooperatives and financial institutions at the
national, regional and district levels to provide
entrepreneurship skills and start-ups.
34. National Council on NCTE will ensure that as part of their core
Tertiary Education mandate at ensuring standards at tertiary
education levels, the interests of the youth are
taken into consideration.
35. National Labour NLC will expedite action to settle labour
Commission disputes involving youth either as employers or
employees.
36. National Accreditation NAB will provide oversight to ensure that the
Board content of academic and training curricula
facilitate the acquisition of relevant knowledge
and skills for the labour market, support
creativity, innovation and responsive to civic
duties.
37. Pensions and Life PLAI will institute measures to motivate young
Assurance Institutions people, timely invest in meaningful pension and
insurance schemes.
38. Job Development NSS, YEA and NABCo etc. that provide temporary
Schemes engagement for the youth will continue
sustained measures aimed at providing stopgap
measures for youth employment.
39. Centre for National CNC will initiate programmes and activities
Culture aimed at inculcating culture and Ghanaian
values in the youth.
40. National Health NHIA will continue its expansion drive to

Insurance Authority improve access to health care by vulnerable
young persons, including persons with
disabilities, persons with mental health
challenges and inmates.
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41. National Security NS will intensify measures aimed at being

proactive and pre-emptive in the disturbance of
peace and security.
42. Narcotics Control NACoC will continue to embark on prevention
Commission education activities to curb substance abuse
among the youth.
43. Scholarship Secretariat Provide scholarship opportunities for young
people to pursue their academic and training
aspirations and acquire requisite skills for
economic empowerment and national
development.
B. Local Government Organisations
44. Municipal, MMDAs are responsible for putting in place the
Metropolitan and necessary structure to implement this policy in
District Assemblies the districts in collaboration with other agencies,
development partners, CSOs among others.
They will integrate priorities of the NYP into
their development plans and mobilise the youth
and link them to available youth services in the
districts.
45. Department of Facilitate the development and promotion of
Agriculture pro-youth agriculture programmes across the
country.
C. Private Sector
46. Ghana National GNCCI will collaborate with their members to
Chamber of Commerce provide apprenticeship and internship to the
and Industry youth. They will also provide advisory services
for young entrepreneurs.
47. Banks and Financial They will collaborate with the Bank of Ghana
Institutions to develop investment products and financial
inclusion services that will allow the youth to
participate effectively in the financial sector.
48. Cooperative CAs will provide business advisory services to

Associations young entrepreneurs to facilitate mobilization of
funds and pooling of resources for sustainable
growth of their businesses.
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49. Ghana Federation of GFD will advocate and collaborate with state
Disability Organisations agencies at all levels for sustainable solutions to
the issues affecting persons with disabilities. It
will also mobilise members to take advantage
of the opportunities that this Policy provides.
50. Ghana Employers’ GEA will endeavour to create employment
Association opportunities for young people.
51. Ghana Youth GYF will engage state agencies, implementers

Federation of the policy and local leaders to advocate and
draw their attention to persisting and emerging
youth development issues. It will also mobilise
members to take advantage of the opportunities
that this Policy provides.
52. Media Houses Media Houses in the country will collaborate

with state agencies, private sector and all actors
at all levels to disseminate information and
advocacy on issues of youth development.
53. Trades Union Congress TUC will collaborate with employers’ groups
to promote social dialogue and adherence to
decent work standards. This is to ensure that
rights of the youth at work are respected.
54. Training Institutions Training Institutions will collaborate with the

Ministry of Education, GES, TVETS etc. to deliver
standardized demand-driven training for the
youth considering the need of women and
PWDs.
55. Youth Development YDSPs will collaborate with state agencies,
Service Providers youth leadership training institutions, the private
sector, NGOs and DPs to deliver specialized
services towards the implementation of the
provisions of this policy.
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D. Development Partners and Civil Society Organizations

56. WB, UNDP, Star Ghana, DPs will provide technical and financial
UNFPA, assistance to the Ministry responsible for youth,
NYA and other state agencies as well as NGOs,
UNICEF, ECOWAS, AU, CSOs, religious bodies and youth organisations
WHO, to implement provisions of this Policy at
USAID, UKAID, all levels. It will also implement pro-youth
Commonwealth, programmes taking into consideration intrinsic
values of the Ghanaian state.
UNDESA, FAO/IFAD,
UNESCO,
AfDB, GIZ etc.
57. Civil Society CSOs will integrate provisions of this Policy in
Organisations their programmes of work for implementation.
In addition, CSOs will conduct advocacy on
issues affecting the youth so that relevant state
agencies, private sector organisations, youth
organisations etc. will take the necessary action
to address them. CSOs will strengthen the social
support system for the youth, to find safety nets
in their communities, create opportunities for
the youth to take up leadership roles and also
create a healthy society free from violence to
enable the youth enjoy physical, intellectual,
social and economic wellbeing.
58. Religious Religious Bodies, Traditional Authorities and

Organisations, Socio Cultural Groups will mobilise youth in their
organisations and communities, assess their
Traditional Authorities, needs and collaborate with relevant institutions
and Socio Cultural in the public and private sectors to address
Groupings. those needs in effective and sustainable
manner. They will also provide correct moral
and spiritual compass to guide the youth in
leading responsible adult life. Additionally, they
will continue to promote the sanctity of the
family unit through the strengthening of both
the nuclear and extended families.
96
(2022-2032)
217. In addition to the key roles and responsibilities, stakeholders may take
action within their mandates to implement provisions of this policy. The
Ministry responsible for youth development is the ultimate trustee and
lead agency for this Policy document and will provide policy oversight
to implementation. To this end, an inter-ministerial committee will be
established to facilitate coordination and oversight across government
machinery, based on the principles of Youth Development Mainstreaming
Approach. A wider stakeholders’ forum akin to the Technical Committee
may be set up to annually review progress reports from the NYA on the
implementation of the NYP.
5.4 Additional Implementation and Coordination Structures

218. Additional structures and platforms will be developed to facilitate
mainstreaming, implementation and coordination at the regional and district
levels. The Regional Youth Committee of each region will be put in place to
bring all stakeholders for deliberations, planning, and assessment of progress.
219. The District Youth Committee will report to the Regional Youth Committee to
give account of the achievements of their district in youth development. The
Regional Youth Committee will also report to the National Youth Coordinating
Platform established at the NYA.
97
(2022-2032)
Figure 1: Additional Implementation and Coordination Structures
National Youth Coordinating Platform
Regional Youth Committee
District Youth Committee
District Planning Coordination Unit
Figure 1 depicts the additional implementation and coordination structures

required to facilitate implementation at the national and sub-national levels.
5.5 Resource Mobilisation

220. This Policy will be implemented through the National Budgeting Structures
sanctioned by the Ministry of Finance for all public institutions. Responsible
public institutions will integrate or align strategies in the Implementation
Plan relevant to their operations for implementation through the Annual
National Budget Estimates within the Medium Term Expenditure Framework
of Government.
221. The Ministry of Finance will put in place measures to ensure incremental
changes to the overall annual budget allocations to youth development
by Government. The MoYS will continue to mobilise funds and draw five
(5) percent of the District Assembly Common Fund, disbursed to NYA, for
coordination and implementation of major interventions. In addition, private
sector organisations, non-governmental organisations, religious bodies,
development partners, civil society organisations and other stakeholders
98
(2022-2032)
will enter into collaborations with public institutions for the implementation
of provisions of this Policy with funds partly or fully raised by them for
agreed interventions. The private sector will also invest funds towards
the implementation of this Policy as a contribution to the development of
the youth. MoYS being the sector with oversight responsibility for policy
implementation will collate, compile and publicise budget allocations and
expenditures, on notice, of all private sector organisations that implement
provisions of the Policy. 222. A Youth Development Fund for financing
youth development activities will be established. Additionally, biannual youth
development financing conferences will be held to evaluate expenditure
versus activities and outcomes as well as provide direction for next steps.
223. The Policy acknowledges the significant role of human resource together
with relevant logistics for successful implementation. In this regard, the
Policy will employ the mixed approach of acquiring the necessary human and
logistical resources. The existing human resource in the public institutions will
be strengthened and sustained within existing structures to deliver policy
outputs.
224. Where the need for specialised knowledge, skills and competence are lacking
within internal existing institutions (public and private), the strategy will be
to leverage on external technical support. The idea will be the provision of
avenues for knowledge and skills transfer. Subsequently, the use of local
materials will be encouraged with maximum assessment to ensure quality
and value for money. The DPs, CSOs, CBOs, think-tanks, academia, publishers,
individuals and communities will be encouraged to contribute to research,
programme design and implementation. The media will be encouraged to
provide publicity for youth oriented programmes as part of their corporate
social responsibility.
225. Finally, interventions between institutions will be managed on structures and
facilities of institutions on the comparative advantage principles. Resources
will be mobilised and invested equitably with great attention to the level of
needs of the youth, vulnerability and geographical locations.
99
(2022-2032)
CHAPTER SIX
MONITORING AND EVALUATION ARRANGEMENT
6.1 Introduction
226. The Implementation Plan for this Policy will be accompanied by a robust
Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Framework. Modalities for monitoring,
measuring, and evaluating progress made towards the implementation of
this Policy will be integrated into the overall M&E Plan.
6.2 Monitoring and Evaluation

227. The Policy hinges on the principles of integration, collaboration, cooperation
and mainstreaming. Thus, the M&E will be anchored on partnership at the
national and sub-national levels of government agencies and institutions,
development partners, private sector, NGOs, CBOs and other stakeholders,
including the youth. It will strive on routine reporting systems to track
progress. The Ministry of Youth and Sports together with the National Youth
Authority will develop an elaborate monitoring and evaluation framework to
be replicated at all levels. An internal M&E mechanism will be put in place
by the Directorate responsible for Monitoring and Evaluation at the Ministry
to operationalise the M&E Framework in collaboration with the M&E Unit at
NYA. 228.The NYA will put in place a mechanism to receive and collate
progress updates from implementing agencies and provide a comprehensive
annual status report to all stakeholders. These feedbacks will be transmitted
periodically to the Ministry to inform policy decisions.
229. A baseline research will be carried out at the onset of the implementation
and integrated in the M&E Framework. This will be followed by subsequent
researches which will collect disaggregated data on youth development in
Ghana to measure progress in specific areas of the youth policy. Periodic
evaluations will be conducted to assess the extent to which the various
projects and programmes emanating from this policy are contributing to the
achievement of the overall policy goal. Each implementing institution will
have clearly defined roles in line with their mandates. The monitoring and
evaluation will be ex-ante, mid-term and ex-post.
230. Inter-agency coordinating units at the national, regional, districts, communities
100
(2022-2032)
and at grassroots level will create similar frameworks for monitoring

interventions. A detailed M&E Plan is attached as Appendix 2.
6.3 Review Cycle

231. The Policy is designed to span the next ten (10) years (2022-2032) and shall
be reviewed at the end of the implementation period. It is expected that
sustained implementation will produce the desired results. However, as a
living document, it must stand the test of time in context and content, thus,
it may be reviewed based on the exigencies of the time, including major
changes in policy, laws, regulations and shifts in global focus. Substantively,
the policy shall be reviewed every five years from the start of implementation.
101
(2022-2032)
CHAPTER SEVEN
COMMUNICATIONS STRATEGY
7.1 Introduction
232. The communication plan will serve as a major tool to sensitise and empower
stakeholders on the understanding of the new direction provided by the
National Youth Policy. The awareness to be created and the classification of
roles will enhance ownership of the policy.
7.2 Communication Strategy for the Policy

233. In order to sustain the commitment and support of stakeholders, including
the youth, a comprehensive policy communication strategy will be developed
and implemented by the implementing agencies. This is to clearly outline
the methods and channels of engagement so that appropriate information is
disseminated in a timely manner to sustain the interest of all stakeholders.
234. The communication strategy will also focus on mobilising the youth and
creating awareness about their potentials and the contribution that they
can make towards national development. The vulnerable groups among the
youth, including young women and young PWDs will be encouraged to adopt
positive perspectives and elevating their confidence in all spheres.
235. Primarily, the communication plan will be executed within existing
communication structures and systems of the country. Multiple fora, including
print and electronic media, social media, durbars town hall meetings,
workshops, seminars, symposia, infomercials, etc. will be used. 236.
The Ministry of Information will play lead role in the communication process
by overseeing that the Information Services Department carryout the
dissemination of key information about the policy to the general public.
237. The NYA will launch the Policy and ensure that it is accessible to stakeholders.
NYA will ensure that the policy document is made available in print and
electronic versions in English and some Ghanaian languages in abridged
forms. Copies will be made readily available at all youth leadership institutes,
leading institutions, metropolitan, municipal and district assemblies, libraries
and at NYA offices. Braille copies will also be made available. The Policy
102
(2022-2032)
document and Implementation Plan will also be made available for download
from the NYA websites and websites of partners. A dedicated campaign to
promote the policy and raise awareness of all stakeholders will be undertaken
at all levels.
238. Technical teams will be setup at the national, regional and district levels
to monitor the progress of implementation of the communication plan
and quarterly feedbacks will be used for review. The communication plan,
detailing the nature and process of communication is attached as Appendix 3.
103
Azumah Nelson Youth and

Sports Complex, Kaneshie, Accra
+233 302 - 221 246
Digital Address : GA-172-6005
[email protected]

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GOVERNMENT OF GHANA

MINISTRY OF YOUTH AND SPORTS

NATIONAL YOUTH POLICY

MINISTRY OF YOUTH AND SPORTS

NATIONAL YOUTH POLICY

ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS..................................................................................... 9

KEY POLICY DEFINITIONS................................................................................................13

INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND................................................................................21

1.3 Purpose of the Policy......................................................................................................... 24

1.4 Situational Analysis............................................................................................................ 25

1.4.1 Economic and Financial Empowerment of Young People................................... 25

1.4.1.1 Youth Entrepreneurship and Financial Inclusion..................................... 25

1.4.1.2 Youth Employment and Labour Issues..................................................... 26

1.4.1.3 Hunger and Poverty................................................................................... 27

1.4.1.4 Youth and Agriculture................................................................................ 28

1.4.1.5 Youth Migration and Mobility................................................................... 29

1.4.1.6 Youth and Environmental Sustainability.................................................. 30

1.4.2 Youth Health and Wellbeing................................................................................... 31

1.4.2.1 HIV and AIDS............................................................................................... 31

1.4.2.2 Substance Abuse........................................................................................ 32

1.4.2.3 Mental Health............................................................................................. 33

1.4.2.4 Sexual and Reproductive Health............................................................... 34

1.4.2.6 Sports, Leisure and Recreation.................................................................. 35

1.4.3 Training and Development..................................................................................... 37

1.4.3.1 Education and Skills Training..................................................................... 37

1.4.3.2 Information and Communications Technology........................................ 39

1.4.4 Youth Participation and Governance..................................................................... 40

1.4.4.1 Active Citizenship and Participation in Governance............................... 40

1.4.4.2 Youth Volunteerism in Ghana................................................................... 42

1.4.4.4 Youth Conflict and Peace-Building............................................................ 43

1.4.5 Cross-Cutting Issues and Youth Development Mainstreaming........................... 44

1.4.5.1 Demographic Dividend and Youth Statistics............................................ 45

1.4.5.2 Vulnerability and Social Inclusion............................................................. 46

1.4.5.3 Social Protection......................................................................................... 48

1.4.5.8 Youth and Crime......................................................................................... 49

1.4.5.9 Culture, Religion and Tourism................................................................... 49

1.4.6 Institutional Framework for Youth Development in Ghana................................ 51

1.4.7 Youth and the Future............................................................................................... 52

1.5 SWOT Analysis.................................................................................................................... 53

1.5.1 SWOT Analysis of Youth Situation in Ghana.......................................................... 54

1.5.2 SWOT Analysis of Youth Interventions................................................................... 56

1.6 Key Policy Issues................................................................................................................ 57

1.7 Scope of the Policy............................................................................................................. 59

1.7 Youth Profile in Ghana....................................................................................................... 60

1.8 Policy Review Process....................................................................................................... 61

1.9 Content and Structure........................................................................................................ 62

2.2 Global and National Contexts........................................................................................... 63

2.3 Legislative Frameworks..................................................................................................... 66

2.3.1 Legal Foundation for the National Youth Policy................................................... 69

3.4 Key Objectives.................................................................................................................... 71

3.5 Core Values......................................................................................................................... 72

3.6 Guiding Principles............................................................................................................... 72

3.7 Policy Preconditions........................................................................................................... 74

STRATEGIC POLICY ACTIONS

POLICY IMPLEMENTATION ARRANGEMENTS....................................................................85

5.2 Implementation and Coordination................................................................................... 85

5.3 Institutional Arrangements for Implementation............................................................. 86

5.4 Additional Implementation and Coordination Structures............................................... 97

5.5 Resource Mobilisation........................................................................................................ 98