By: Kenneth Appiah Bani
The Chief Executive Officer of the National Youth Authority (NYA), Mr. Osman Ayariga, has kept a promise he made to Solomon Akugru, a survivor of the June 3 Circle disaster. He has helped Solomon join the National Apprenticeship Programme so he can learn a trade and build a better life.
This kind act came after Ghanaian blogger Kobby Kyei shared Solomon’s story on social media on May 30, 2025. Solomon was badly injured in the 2015 disaster, which involved a flood and fire. He was later abandoned by his family and has been begging on the streets to survive.
Through his Touching Lives campaign, Kobby Kyei told Solomon’s story to the public, hoping someone would help. Mr. Ayariga was touched by the story and invited Solomon to his office at the NYA. During their meeting, Solomon said he wanted to learn how to lay tiles so he could earn a living.
Mr. Ayariga welcomed him kindly and even filled out the forms himself to make sure Solomon was enrolled in the apprenticeship programme.
Kobby Kyei thanked Mr. Ayariga in a Facebook post, saying, “Thank you @osmanayariga for welcoming us and truly caring about Solomon’s future. Helping him learn a skill shows your real kindness and leadership.”
Mr. Ayariga also praised Kobby Kyei for using his platform to help others. He promised that the NYA will continue to support young people, especially those who are struggling or left behind.
Solomon’s story has inspired many people across Ghana. It shows how leaders and citizens can work together to bring hope to those in need. Kobby Kyei is also asking the public to continue supporting Solomon in any way they can.
Many have praised Mr. Ayariga’s actions as an example of good leadership and real care for the youth. His support is a reminder that the NYA is working to change lives one young person at a time.
Video credit: NYA
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