Acting NYA CEO Osman Ayariga Vows to Focus on Youth Development Over Politics, Putting Ghana First

Osman Ayariga, the Acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the National Youth Authority (NYA), has made a strong commitment to prioritize the development of young people in Ghana, stressing the importance of moving beyond political affiliations. In his leadership, Ayariga seeks to address the critical challenges facing the youth of the nation, particularly the issue of unemployment, while maintaining a non-partisan approach to governance.

In an interview on Woezor TV on February 9, 2025, Ayariga expressed his determination to focus solely on the needs of the youth, regardless of their political backgrounds. He stated, “I am here to serve the Ghanaian people. Whether you belong to the NDC or NPP, once we are in office, we must put politics aside and unite for the betterment of the youth.” His message reflected his belief that the development of young people is a shared national goal, which should transcend party lines.

Ayariga’s appointment comes at a time when the issue of youth unemployment is a pressing concern in the country. Currently, the youth unemployment rate stands at 5.5%, a figure that calls for urgent action. Ayariga acknowledged that the NYA has inherited a number of unfinished projects, which include eight incomplete youth resource centers. Despite these challenges, Ayariga is determined to ensure these centers are completed and become operational to serve the youth of various regions across Ghana. “These projects are not owned by any political party; they belong to the people of Ghana. The youth in regions such as Navrongo and Adaklu deserve to have these centers completed and made accessible to them,” he explained.

One of Ayariga’s key priorities is to tackle youth unemployment through a variety of initiatives. He has laid out plans for a National Apprenticeship Programme, which will expand the scope of training beyond traditional trades such as carpentry and hairdressing. Under this programme, young people will also have access to skills training in emerging sectors such as technology, agriculture, and business. “Our goal is to create 10,000 businesses annually, each providing at least 50 jobs. This will result in the creation of 500,000 jobs every year, and over 2 million jobs in the next four years,” Ayariga revealed. This ambitious plan aims to equip young people with the skills necessary to thrive in a rapidly changing job market, and to encourage entrepreneurship as a means of economic empowerment.

In addition to the apprenticeship programme, Ayariga has introduced the “Youth in Green Opportunities” initiative. This programme is designed to harness the potential of sustainable farming and environmental conservation to create employment opportunities in green industries. Recognizing the growing need for environmental sustainability, Ayariga sees agriculture and technology as key sectors that can drive job creation and economic growth. The initiative will also focus on addressing the pressing issues of illegal mining and deforestation, which have had devastating impacts on the environment and the livelihoods of many young people.

Ayariga is committed to ensuring that the NYA takes a holistic approach to youth development, one that encompasses not only employment opportunities but also the overall well-being of young people in Ghana. By expanding apprenticeship opportunities, fostering entrepreneurship, and supporting green initiatives, Ayariga believes the NYA can play a crucial role in tackling the challenges that hinder youth progress.

The Acting CEO has also called on Ghanaians to put aside political differences and work together to create a better future for the youth. He pointed out that poverty and unemployment do not discriminate based on political party affiliation, tribe, or race. “Poverty affects us all, regardless of our political views. It is time for us to unite and build a Ghana where every young person has an equal chance to succeed,” he urged.

Ayariga’s leadership at the NYA signals a new direction, one that puts the needs of the youth at the forefront, free from the divisiveness of political agendas. His plans for job creation, skills development, and environmental sustainability offer hope for the future of Ghana’s young people, and his call for unity could be the catalyst for real change in the country’s approach to youth development.