The Private Universities Students' Association of Ghana (PUSAG) has appealed to the government to prioritise the safety and empowerment of the nation's youth as the world marks International Youth Day.

The plea, delivered by PUSAG President Issah Ibrahim, comes in the wake of a series of tragedies that have claimed the lives of 24 young Ghanaians in recent weeks.

In a press release on August 12, Mr Ibrahim highlights two major incidents: the fatal military helicopter crash that killed eight people, including two ministers of state, and a heartbreaking road accident that claimed the lives of sixteen young individuals returning from a church programme.

The full press release reflects a growing sentiment among young people that the nation must do more to protect and invest in its greatest asset.

Mr Ibrahim described the victims not merely as statistics, but as "dreams in motion" and the "beating heart" of the nation.

In his emotional statement, President Ibrahim called on the state to transform its grief into resolve, urging a significant shift in national policy.

He outlined three key demands:

• Prioritize Safety: He called for immediate action to enhance the safety of young people on Ghana's roads, in their communities, and in their workplaces.
• Invest in Opportunities: Ibrahim urged the government to invest in sustainable youth opportunities to convert young people's energy into economic growth.
• Engage Young Voices: The statement demanded that young people be included in national decision-making as "true stakeholders," not just as tokens.

The PUSAG president emphasised that with youth making up over 57% of Ghana's population, their welfare should not be an afterthought.

He concluded with a message of hope and determination, stating that Ghana's youth are ready to "lead, ready to serve, and ready to build a future that honours those we have lost."