The Ghana Library Authority is inviting young Ghanaians aged 14 to 24 to participate in the second edition of the Youth Advocacy Challenge.
This year’s edition centers on the critical theme: “Examining the Impact of Substance Abuse on Youth and Proposing Innovative Community-Based Solutions.”
As part of the Youth Engagement Centre project, the Youth Advocacy Challenge provides a platform for young people to engage in national discussions. It offers them the opportunity to share innovative ideas and advocate for solutions to urgent social issues.
The initiative is a collaboration between GhLA and UNICEF, reflecting their shared commitment to fostering an informed and active youth generation. Each quarter, a new topical issue is introduced, encouraging fresh perspectives and effective advocacy through well-researched articles.
Building on the success of the inaugural edition, Philomena Esi Agudu, the 23-year-old winner and medical student at the University of Cape Coast (UCC), contributed a thought-provoking article titled “Inclusive Education in Ghana: Bridging the Gap for Girls and Persons with Disabilities.” Her work raised awareness and offered recommendations to improve inclusivity and accessibility for marginalized groups.
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 GHC 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.”
