Youth Engagement Programme Launched in Central Tongu by UNICEF and NYA

Adidome:The National Youth Authority (NYA), in collaboration with UNICEF, has introduced an Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health (ASRH) and Youth Engagement Centre (YEC) programme in Central Tongu District, with an initial meeting held at Adidome. According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Yao Semoade, Volta Regional Director of the NYA, emphasized the programme's aim to provide a supportive environment for young people to gain knowledge, skills, and confidence for responsible decision-making and preparation for adulthood. Mr. Semoade highlighted the importance of providing adolescents with information and guidance to prevent them from succumbing to peer and societal pressures that could negatively impact their future. The Youth Engagement Centre, a collaborative effort between the NYA and UNICEF, will offer safe spaces for youth to discuss their concerns and experiences without judgment. These centers will provide access to counseling, guidance, and opportunities to engage in productive activities. The prog ramme, running from 2026 to 2028, seeks to equip adolescents with gender-transformative life skills and sexual and reproductive health knowledge while enhancing their participation in policy and budget discussions. Mr. Selorm Kwadzo Aklasu-Aho, Regional Programmes Officer of the NYA, stated that the action plan focuses on ensuring YECs are ready, safe, accessible, and responsive to youth needs, utilizing existing facilities rather than constructing new ones. Mr. Aklasu-Aho also mentioned exploring digital options to reach youth who are unable to access physical centers, ensuring they receive necessary services and information remotely. The initiative will involve mapping existing facilities, assessing their readiness, identifying gaps, and developing district-level improvement plans while strengthening youth involvement in service design and monitoring. Mr. Addison Dodzi Mornyuie, District Chief Executive for Central Tongu, stressed the importance of engaging young people for sustained development, urging p articipants to share insights from the meeting with their communities to maximize the programme's impact. Ms. Melody Enam Bedi from the Ghana Health Service welcomed the initiative, citing concerns over adolescent pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections as critical reasons for promoting education and access to health services. The meeting included Assembly Members, Police Service representatives, Ghana Health Service, Okada riders, youth groups, persons with disabilities, and the Muslim Community, all of whom pledged support for the programme's advocacy and implementation.