The National Youth Delegate Ghana of the Commonwealth Youth Council, Ms. Bridget Nana Yaa Wilson, in partnership with the All-Africa Students Union (AASU), the National Youth Authority (NYA), and Penyman Group Limited, successfully organized the 2025 International Youth Day celebration at Accra High School.

This year’s event, themed “Local Youth Actions for the SDGs and Beyond: Preparing Students for Sustainable Actions in Ghana,” brought together more than 500 students from across the Greater Accra and Central Regions. Participating schools included Accra High School, Breman Asikuma Secondary School, Odoben Senior High School, and Christian International School-Brakwa.

Inspiring Youth to Take Bold Action

The program created a unique platform for students to explore the importance of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and to understand how their education, choices, and leadership can drive sustainable action at both local and national levels.

The celebration featured keynote addresses, panel discussions, and interactive workshop sessions, which encouraged students to take up leadership roles in their schools and communities. Speakers underscored the urgency of student-led action in addressing pressing issues such as climate change, unemployment, inequality, and education gaps.

Distinguished Guests and Key Messages

The event was graced by several dignitaries, including:

• Mr. Inusah Mahama, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, National Youth Authority

• Jemilatu Mamshie Bawa, Chief Operations Officer, All-Africa Students Union

• Mr. Eric Kwesi Taylor, Chief Executive Officer, Penyman Group Limited

• Mr. Daniel Owiredu, Programs and Partnership Manager, Green Advocacy Ghana

In her address, Ms. Bridget Nana Yaa Wilson emphasized the importance of localizing and contextualizing the SDGs:

“As we engage with the SDGs, it is essential to localize and contextualize these goals. Each SDG presents an incredible opportunity to translate global aspirations into actionable steps within our communities and even here at school. Whether through tree planting initiatives, clean drinking water projects, or social justice movements, every action counts.”

Positioning Youth as Architects of Sustainable Development

Organizers and participants described the event as more than just a commemoration, noting that it served as a strategic step in positioning young people as architects of Ghana’s sustainable development agenda. Students departed with renewed enthusiasm to initiate sustainability projects in their communities and schools.

“At Penyman Group, we believe in empowering young people with the tools and opportunities to lead. This partnership reflects our commitment to building a sustainable future where the youth take center stage in shaping national development,” said Mr. Eric Kwesi Taylor, CEO of Penyman Group Limited.