World Vision Ghana has called on young people to take advantage of emerging opportunities in the green economy to build a more sustainable and resilient future for Ghana.
Mr. Rexford Bugre, Northern Operations Manager of World Vision Ghana, made the call at the Ghanaian Youth Summit in Tamale, organized by the Centre for Opportunities and Rural Development (CORD Ghana).
The summit, held on the theme “Enhancing Environmental Sustainability and Green Jobs,” brought together students, youth groups, community leaders, and development partners to explore practical solutions to climate-related challenges.
Mr. Bugre emphasized the importance of empowering youth to engage in green entrepreneurship and environmental advocacy to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and tackle unemployment, particularly in northern Ghana where climate change affects livelihoods.
“We believe that empowering young people through initiatives like this is vital to achieving climate resilience and sustainable livelihoods,” Mr. Bugre said. “The youth must see themselves as key stakeholders in environmental stewardship and innovation.”
Dr. Kodimah Siita, Executive Director of CORD Ghana, said the summit aimed to bridge the knowledge and participation gap among youth in northern Ghana regarding environmental governance and green entrepreneurship. He encouraged young people to explore opportunities in sustainable agriculture, climate innovation, and environmental advocacy.
“The statistics are clear: with about 200,000 university graduates produced annually in Ghana, only about 22,000 are absorbed into the public sector, leaving many unemployed,” Dr. Kodimah said. “It’s time for young people to think outside the box and explore opportunities in the green economy.”
The Ambassador of Spain to Ghana and Togo, Mr. Ángel Lossada, reaffirmed Spain’s commitment to supporting Ghana and other developing nations in advancing climate adaptation and sustainability initiatives.
“This summit is a step in the right direction,” Mr. Lossada said. “Climate change is a global problem that requires collective action. We must work together to address its consequences and promote sustainable development.”
Esther Nyamekye Opoku, Programs and Policy Director at CORD Ghana, highlighted the organization’s efforts to promote climate action, including establishing 53 Green School Clubs and training young people on agroecological farming and recycling.
“We’re committed to empowering young people to take action on climate change,” Opoku said. “This summit is just the beginning. We hope to inspire a new generation of climate leaders who will drive positive change in their communities.”
The summit concluded with a call for stronger collaboration among government, civil society, and development partners to create enabling conditions for youth participation in climate governance and the green economy.
Author: CDKN ICACE Team
Source: www.climatewatchonline.com
