In a remarkable display of youth leadership and engagement, the Ghana Grows Youth Policy Dialogue has empowered over 2,100 young voices – a blend of 200 in-person attendees and 2,000 virtual participants – from the community, district, and national levels across Ghana on Saturday, April 20 at the Ho Technical University.

The Ghana Grows Programme is a collaborative initiative by the Mastercard Foundation and Springboard Road Show Foundation.

The programme seeks to equip young people, particularly women, with the knowledge and confidence to explore career paths in agriculture, agribusiness, and technical and vocational fields.

The Youth Policy Dialogue served as a platform for these Agriculture and ATVET (Agricultural Technical and Vocational Education Training) youth ambassadors to develop their skills and gain the confidence to engage directly with stakeholders in the industry.

Speaking at the event, Comfort Ocran, Executive Director of Springboard Road Show Foundation charged participants to take action by bringing to the table the challenges and opportunities they see in the Agric and ATVET sectors, sharing their thoughts on how to bridge the gap between education and employment in these sectors, and more importantly, share what policies and resources they need to thrive.

The dialogue specifically addressed Commitments 1 and 2 of Chapter 5 of the National Gender Policy, focusing on women's empowerment, livelihoods, and their right to access justice.

A Ghanaian lawyer cum activist, Ms Hilary Gbedemah shared invaluable insights on engaging stakeholders with confidence, emphasising the importance of awareness, public appearance, public speaking, etiquette, and networking skills.

Her address resonated deeply with attendees, providing practical strategies for effective communication and interaction in professional settings.

Dr Angela Dwamena-Aboagye of the Ark Foundation presented a compelling case study of the Ark Foundation, shedding light on policy awareness and engagement with stakeholders. Through her expertise, she highlighted the role of advocacy and collaboration in advancing women's rights and access to justice.

Professor Lydia Aziato, Vice Chancellor of the University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS) provided a powerful personal narrative on breaking barriers to women's empowerment. She shared valuable lessons on overcoming obstacles and leveraging opportunities for growth and development.

The dialogue culminated in the publication and distribution of a policy brief, offering insights and recommendations to shape the future of youth engagement in Ghana's agricultural sector.

This initiative by the Ghana Grows Programme serves as a significant step towards inspiring and equipping a new generation of Ghanaians to succeed in agribusiness and contribute to the nation's economic growth.

You can be part of the Ghana Grows Programme by dialling 71850# or Calling/WhatsApp Springboard Road Show Foundation call centre on 0308255775. Ghana Grows, Hope Dey!