.png)
'A Twitter Space Conversation on Apathy Towards Leadership in Ghana'
In a thought-provoking Twitter Space conversation titled “Nobody is going into politics,” the apathy of young adults towards leadership opportunities in Ghana took center stage. The event, moderated by journalist Yaa Bitha, featured three distinguished speakers: Chris Atadika, a youth activist; Darling Okunor, a political enthusiast; and Cyril Gockel, an entrepreneur and on-air personality. Over the course of the discussion, approximately 190 individuals tuned in to engage in the captivating dialogue with the number of listens to the conversation reaching a staggering 900 within the last 48 hours.
In case you missed the conversation, we’ve got you! This is a quick recap of the highlights. You can still listen to the conversation on
Lack of Interest and Engagement:
The conversation shed light on the prevailing disinterest and disengagement of young adults in Ghana when it comes to pursuing political leadership roles. The speakers and attendees explored the possible reasons behind this apathy, including disillusionment with the current political landscape, perceived corruption, and a lack of trust in politicians.
Perceived Challenges and Barriers:
Another key topic of discussion was the perceived challenges and barriers that deter young adults from venturing into politics. Issues such as limited access to resources, the dominance of established political elites, and the high cost of political campaigns were explored. Participants emphasized the need for comprehensive political reform to address these barriers and create a more inclusive and accessible political environment.
Importance of Youth Representation:
It highlighted the crucial importance of youth representation in politics. Speakers and participants stressed that the voices and perspectives of young adults are vital for shaping policies that address the concerns and aspirations of the future generation. Efforts to encourage and support young adults in entering politics were discussed, including mentorship programs, capacity-building initiatives, and the need for young leaders to step forward and take action.
Changing the Narrative:
To counter the narrative that “youth don’t care about leadership,” the conversation called for proactive steps from everyone involved. Suggestions included promoting youth mentorship programs, creating platforms for engagement and dialogue, supporting youth-led initiatives, and encouraging active participation in civic and political activities. It was emphasized that change starts with individual actions, and collectively, they can make a significant impact
This side conversation provided a platform for meaningful dialogue where participants shed light on the reasons behind youth disengagement towards politics. By acknowledging the challenges and emphasizing the importance of youth representation, the conversation contributes to the ongoing efforts to foster a more vibrant and inclusive political landscape in Ghana.
Written by Dorothy Opare