President John Dramani Mahama has cautioned to the Ghanaian youth to stay away from drug addiction, urging them instead to focus on education, skills development, hard work, entrepreneurship and service to humanity.
The President delivered the warning on Wednesday during his address at the Eid ul Adha prayers, telling young people that the country needs them alert, focused and productive.
He coupled the warning with a call for discipline, respect and responsible citizenship among the youth.
President Mahama said his administration is working to create the conditions that give young people a genuine stake in the economy and reduce the vulnerability that often drives destructive behaviour.
He referenced the government’s 24-hour economy policies, skills development initiatives, apprenticeship programmes and industrial transformation agenda as part of the effort to open up sustainable employment opportunities for the youth.
He also told the gathering that signs of economic recovery are beginning to show after his administration inherited what he called significant economic difficulties that weighed heavily on businesses, families and young people seeking opportunities.
He said the focus going forward remains on creating jobs, supporting local enterprises and improving living conditions for ordinary Ghanaians.
The President used the occasion to outline several development commitments for Zongo communities, including road projects, and new STEM secondary schools in densely populated urban areas.
He also announced that 6,000 Arabic teachers recruited through the Youth Employment Agency have all been fully paid.
Richard Aniagyei, ISD
