Minister urges youth to champion regional integration

The Eastern Regional Minister, Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey, has urged young people to become advocates of regional integration and continental unity to promote sustainable development and peace across West Africa.

She made the call at the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Regional Sensitisation Workshop on ECOWAS Protocols and Conventions for Senior High and Tertiary Students, held at the Centre for National Culture in Koforidua.

The workshop, organised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in collaboration with ECOWAS, brought together dignitaries including the ECOWAS Resident Representative to Ghana, Mohammed Lawan Gana, and the Coordinating Director for Multilateral and International Organisations at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mr Francis Danti Kotia.

Ms Awatey commended the Ministry for engaging the youth, describing it as vital in bridging the gap between policy and practice.

She said students must become “future ambassadors” who use knowledge gained to foster collaboration and drive development across the sub-region.

Mr Kotia, for his part, emphasised that ECOWAS’ strength lies in youth participation. He highlighted opportunities such as scholarships, internships, and educational exchanges, urging students to develop their skills and contribute to regional progress.

The Director of Youth Development and Employment, Mr Mohammed Saani Adams, stressed that empowering young people through training and participation is key to national and regional development.