Ghana’s youth needs opportunities, not just promises

Dear Editor,

I write to draw attention to an issue affecting many young people in Ghana.

It is about the growing need for meaningful employment, internships, skills development and opportunities that can help them build sustainable futures.

Young people are often described as the future of the country. However, the future cannot be secured by words alone. Many complete tertiary education and obtain certificates, yet struggle to find opportunities to apply their knowledge and gain practical experience.

One major challenge is the limited availability of quality internships and entry-level jobs. Some organisations demand years of experience even for positions intended for young graduates. This creates a difficult cycle: young people need experience to secure employment, but they need employment opportunities to gain that experience.

Government, private sector organisations, educational institutions and civil society groups must work together to create structured opportunities. Internships should offer practical training, mentorship and genuine workplace exposure rather than certificates alone.

There is also a need to promote digital skills, entrepreneurship and vocational training alongside academic education. The youth are not asking for everything to be handed to them; they are asking for a fair opportunity to demonstrate what they can do.

I, therefore urge stakeholders to move beyond promises and invest in practical opportunities for Ghana’s young people.

From Alex Baidoo

Cape coast