The Voice of Youth Coalition – Damongo recently orchestrated a public debate between the Damongo Youth Parliament and the West Gonja Municipal Parliament, as part of the Youth on Board project, funded by the Danish Civil Society In Development Fund (CISU).
This event, held on Thursday, February 1st, 2024, centered around the topic “Parents and students are not responsible for the academic failure of students in the Damongo municipality,” within the broader theme of “Engendering youth voices in Ghana’s Education, Response to the COVID-19 pandemic.”
The Voices of Youth Coalition, a platform led by youth advocating for their active participation in shaping Ghana’s development agenda, strongly advocates for placing young people at the forefront of national development discussions, especially within political spheres.
Mr. John Lipoima, Vice President of the Voice of Youth Coalition – Damongo, welcomed attendees to the public debate program. He highlighted that the Youth On Board Project, a collaboration between YOTA (Youth Opportunity and Transformation in Africa) and 100% for the Children, aims to amplify youth voices in Ghana’s education sector, particularly in response to the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Lipoima noted the concerning trend of low exam pass rates in the West Gonja Municipality, persisting below 40% for the past four years, which is a significant concern for the local youth. He explained that the debate program, among other activities, seeks to identify the root causes of these challenges and propose solutions for necessary actions to relevant authorities.
Mr. George Akubga, speaking on behalf of the West Gonja Municipal Director, emphasized the vital role of youth in nation-building, highlighting their potential to contribute innovative ideas and energy essential for societal progress. He urged the debaters to engage in constructive discussions, underscoring the responsibility of young people as future leaders, particularly in the realm of education.
Akubga concluded by expressing gratitude to the program partners and offering blessings for their continued support.
At the event’s conclusion, the Damongo Youth Parliament emerged victorious in arguing against the motion, while the West Gonja Municipal Parliament secured second place for advocating in favor of it.
