The Ghana Library Authority (GhLA) is inviting Ghanaian youth aged 14 to 24 to participate in the 2nd edition of the Youth Advocacy Challenge.

This edition focuses on the critical topic: "Examine the Impact of Substance Abuse on Youth and Suggest Innovative Community-Based Solutions."

The Youth Advocacy Challenge is an initiative under the Youth Engagement Centre project; this gives young Ghanaians an avenue to contribute effectively to national discussions.

It enables them to share innovative ideas and advocate for solutions to pressing societal issues.

This initiative demonstrates GhLA and UNICEF's commitment to engendering an informed, active generation of youth.

Each quarter, a new insightful topic is set out and fresh perspectives produce an inspiring call into effective advocacy through well-crafted articles.

Reflecting on the success of the maiden edition, the winner, Philomena Esi Agudu, a 23-year-old medical student at the University of Cape Coast (UCC), shared a thought-provoking article titled "Inclusive Education in Ghana: Bridging the Gap for Girls and Persons with Disabilities."

She created awareness and provided recommendations that could improve inclusivity and accessibility for marginalised groups.

Call to Action

Applications for the 2nd edition of the Youth Advocacy Challenge are, therefore, open from 23rd December 2024 to 17th January 2025.

Interested applicants are invited to submit entries via https://www.library.gov.gh/en/advocacy/  before the deadline.

Essays should not be more than 800 words, typewritten in Times New Roman font, and must comply with the submission guidelines.

The winner will receive a cash prize of GH¢3,000, while the essay will be featured in the Daily Graphic for their ideas to receive national recognition.

Commenting on the initiative, Ms. Angela Osei Gyan, Head of Corporate Affairs at the Ghana Library Authority, stated: "The Youth Advocacy Challenge demonstrates our belief in the potential transformative effect of young voices.

"By discussing pressing national issues, these young Ghanaians showcase both creativity and intelligence while ultimately carving out the future for our communities."

About the Youth Engagement Centre Project

The Youth Engagement Centre is a collaborative initiative where GhLA and UNICEF come together in efforts toward empowering the youth through advocacy, digital skill development, mentorship, and community engagement.