By Daily Statesman
Copyright dailystatesman
The Minority Leader in Parliament, Osahen Alexander Kwamena Afenyo-Markin, has called on Ghanaian youth to embrace integrity, innovation, and technology-driven leadership, saying the future of the nation rests on their creativity, resilience, and accountability.
Speaking during the launch of University of Education, Winneba (UEW) Young Commons Forum on Friday, September 19, 2025, at the Central Campus Assembly Hall, Osahen Afenyo-Markin reflected on his own journey from a young entrepreneur to a parliamentarian.
He shared the challenges he overcame, including business setbacks and financial struggles. “Life was difficult. I owed multiple banks and even faced the threat of losing my home. But perseverance, hard work, and faith helped me rise again. I want young Ghanaians to understand that challenges are part of the journey, but determination can make the difference,” he said.
He recounted his early years, including running businesses in logistics and transporting bauxite and limestone across the region, and how financial losses almost wiped out his enterprises. “My kids had to go to school in taxis because I had lost almost everything. But I rebuilt from scratch,” he said.
Afenyo-Markin warned against the destructive cycle of partisan politics that often undermines national progress. “Political leaders sometimes take the people’s mandate for granted, focusing on bringing down opponents rather than implementing policies that improve lives. We must collectively demand accountability and ensure our leaders address critical issues like youth unemployment and economic empowerment,” he said.
Tech-savvy
Highlighting the need for a new generation of tech-savvy leaders, the Minority Leader urged youth to leverage innovation and technology for national development. He cited global examples, including Kenya’s M-Pesa mobile money system, South Korea’s technology revolution, Singapore’s strategic investment in education and talent, and Ethiopia’s growing aviation and renewable energy sectors. “Ghana needs leaders who can navigate uncertainty, embrace honest technology, bridge divides, and create sustainable solutions. This is your era of startups, coding, research, and problem-solving,” he said.
He also highlighted homegrown examples of youth-driven innovation in fintech, agriculture, and the creative arts, pointing out that when youthful creativity meets support and opportunity, nation-building flourishes. “These stories show that Ghana’s future is in your hands,” he added.
Education, according to Afenyo-Markin, remains the cornerstone of leadership. He stressed the importance of a curriculum that integrates project-based learning, communication, collaboration, civic participation, and exposure to global perspectives. “Here at UEW, you carry a special responsibility as the nation’s premier institution for training teachers and administrators. The knowledge you gain here is meant to be multiplied in classrooms and communities,” he said.
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