The Ghana-Russia Center for Commerce and Relations (the Center), a non-profit organisation operating in Ghana in collaboration with its Russian partners, has partnered with the Member of Parliament (MP) for Old Tafo, Vincent Ekow Assafuah, to launch a youth empowerment programme.

The initiative, led by the Center and supported by the MP, aims to foster collaboration on education, community projects, and the empowerment of youth and women across the nation.

During a meeting with the MP on Wednesday, the Center's Founder and CEO, Mr. John Aggrey, explained that the project seeks to create opportunities for youth to become self-employed and gain financial independence.

Mr. Aggrey described the initiative as a "significant move towards strengthening youth empowerment and capacity building," adding that it aims to equip young people with the skills they need for self-sufficiency."

He continued, "The engagement provided a platform to explore synergistic opportunities and strategies for empowering communities through innovative projects and skill-building programmes," he said in an interview with journalists following the day-long meeting held in the MP's office in parliament.

In response, the MP stated, "It is imperative that, as officeholders, we do everything we can to address the present and future aspirations of the youth in the country. We must support initiatives that promote innovative and sustainable life skills, empowering these young people to become nation builders."

The MP pledged his full support for the project and commended the Center's efforts, expressing optimism about future collaborations aimed at prioritising the socio-economic development of Ghana's youth and women.

Kow K. Taylor, Head of Operations at the Center, remarked, "This meeting marks a pivotal step in our ongoing efforts to harness international partnerships for the enrichment of local communities, paving the way for sustainable development and the inclusion of young people in national progress."

Michael Acquah, Head of International Projects at the Center, added, "Both parties affirmed their commitment to working together for the benefit of future generations, ensuring that strategic initiatives lead to tangible impacts on the ground."

The youth empowerment programme is set to be launched later this year in the Old Tafo constituency. The Center will shortlist young people from across the country, equipping them with the skills and resources necessary to become self-reliant.