By: Emmanuel Amoah
In celebration of its 20th anniversary, the Child Research and Resource Centre (CRRECENT) held a crucial advocacy forum on Thursday, September 5, 2024. Themed “Ghana’s Youth Bulge – An Opportunity and a Challenge for Nation Building,” the event delved into the implications of the country’s growing youth population, exploring both the potential benefits and associated risks.
Held at the University of Ghana and chaired by Dr. Joseph Whittal, Commissioner of the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), the forum attracted a host of prominent speakers and experts. Among them were Prof. Vladimir Antwi-Danso, Director of Academic Affairs at the Ghana Armed Forces Command & Staff College, and Dr. Lilian Ayete-Nyampong, Director of Research at CHRAJ.
Discussions highlighted the dual nature of the youth bulge, emphasizing its potential to drive innovation and economic growth, but also cautioning against the risks posed by youth unemployment, crime, and social instability.
In his address, Dr. Whittal stressed the importance of focusing on justice for children and youth, particularly in areas related to delinquency, juvenile crime, and rehabilitation. He called for more attention to be paid to these issues as Ghana navigates its youth bulge.
Prof. Antwi-Danso, a key speaker, echoed these concerns. While acknowledging the immense opportunities presented by a large youthful population, he warned of the significant challenges it could pose if not properly managed. “A growing youthful population offers chances for innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic development. But if youth unemployment continues to rise, it could lead to social unrest and exploitation,” he said.
Speaking to journalists after the event, Prof. Antwi-Danso highlighted the risks of youth idleness, warning of political exploitation. “Politicians often exploit the youth, especially when they are not engaged in meaningful work. They recruit them as vigilantes or watchdogs for political parties because they are idle. If we begin to use them for criminal activities, they could eventually hold the country hostage,” he cautioned.
Dr. Lilian Ayete-Nyampong’s presentation focused on vulnerable children and youth in conflict with the law. She revealed troubling statistics, noting that a significant portion of Ghana’s prison population is made up of young people aged 12 to 21. Her insights underscored the urgent need for interventions aimed at preventing crime and supporting the rehabilitation of young offenders.
The forum underscored the need for collective action to address the challenges posed by Ghana’s youth bulge while seizing the opportunities it presents for national growth and development.
