Hon. Mustapha Ussif, Minister of Youth and Sports, has reasserted the government’s unwavering dedication to empowering young individuals with the tools and expertise necessary to confront the challenges posed by climate change.
Highlighting the urgency of efficient resource management as a pivotal factor in Ghana’s economic advancement and the attainment of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 13, which underscores the critical importance of climate action, Hon. Mustapha Ussif addressed attendees at the National Youth Conference on Climate Action and Environmental Sustainability.
The event took place on August 17 at the University of Environment and Sustainable Development, Somanya.
During his keynote speech, the Minister urged the youth to cultivate skills that align with the government’s initiatives in mitigating the impacts of climate change.
He emphasized that young people can shape policies, ignite transformative behaviors, and create a world that remains conducive for future generations.
“As the world shifts towards sustainable paradigms, it becomes imperative for the youth to develop these competencies and lead the charge for environmental sustainability,” he asserted.
Hon. Mustapha Ussif highlighted the government’s dedication to climate action through initiatives such as the Forest and Wildlife Policy. He stressed the importance of cultivating the capacities of young individuals, enabling their engagement in resource management, and entrusting them with the responsibility of environmental stewardship. Despite these efforts, the participation of youth in policy implementation has been somewhat limited.
The Minister’s call to action extends to the more than 11.7 million youth in Ghana, who play a dual role as both custodians and recipients of the consequences of environmental degradation. Their innovative perspectives and capacity for sustainable solutions propel policymakers to involve them more extensively in the decision-making process.
Addressing the role of green skills in fortifying environmental protection, Hon. Mustapha Ussif highlighted the potential for transformational careers in climate action, encompassing areas from renewable energy and sustainable agriculture to natural habitat preservation and prudent waste management.
“Equipping them with green skills not only readies them for upcoming professional opportunities in the burgeoning economy but also nurtures a practice of paramount importance in preserving our planet’s integrity,” he emphasized.
The National Youth Conference on Climate Action and Environmental Sustainability was orchestrated by the National Youth Authority (NYA) under the theme “Green Skills for Youth: Towards a Sustainable World.” This conference forms part of the August activities in celebration of National Youth Month.
