The Principal Programmes Officer of the Women, Youth, Peace, and Security Institute (WYPSI) at the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre (KAIPTC), Agnes Agbevadi, has urged young people to channel their energy into positively impacting society.

Addressing participants at the Election Observer Training Course in Sogakope, she advised youth to be mindful of the pressures of social vices and peer influence.

She emphasised the need to develop employable skills or learn a trade rather than relying solely on white-collar jobs.

"Our youth are brimming with potential," Mrs Agbevadi remarked, stating "this training empowers you to use that potential constructively, especially in ways that support our nation’s democratic process and stability."

Organised by KAIPTC in partnership with the Foundation for Security and Development in Africa (FOSDA) and supported by the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA), this initiative is designed to train women and youth as impartial election observers in preparation for Ghana’s 2024 general elections.

The programme seeks to promote inclusivity and uphold peace, transparency, and democracy throughout the election process, equipping participants with essential skills for unbiased observation and reporting.

Conducted under KAIPTC’s WYPSI and the Women Situation Room Project, the training highlights the crucial role of women and youth as peacemakers in Ghana.

Partnering with the Women Situation Room Consortium—which includes FOSDA, WILDAF, AWLN Ghana, ABANTU for Development, UN Women, GENCED, and other organizations—this initiative strengthens the collective efforts of Ghanaian women-focused groups committed to fostering a peaceful and inclusive electoral environment.

The training is part of broader efforts by KAIPTC and FOSDA to support Ghana's democratic resilience, encouraging women and youth to take active roles in upholding electoral transparency and peace.