The International Youth Diplomacy Conference (IYDC) has called on the youth of Africa to arise from their slumber and change the narrative of Africa by taking ownership of their lives and changing the status quo of doing things in their family, communities, nations, Africa, and the world as a whole.
Executive President of IFED Global, organizers for the International Youth Diplomacy Conference, Mr. Acheampong Tutu made this call when he spoke at the International Youth Diplomacy Conference in Accra on the theme; “Change Africa, Galvanizing Youth for Sustainable Development”.
He indicated that the theme was chosen to help draw the attention of youth across the African continent to take charge of their lives and make a difference in their chosen field of endeavour for a better Africa.
According to him, “over 60% of the African population is under 25 years; this is according to the UN demographic projections, which are more than ever before in human history. Having a large population of young people offers us a golden opportunity to accelerate sustainable development and achieve continental peace and development, giving the necessary policies are in place, substantial investment is made, and conducive environments are created.”
Also present at the event was the Deputy Minister for Education and Member of Parliament for the Assin South Constituency, John Ntim Fordjour who indicated that education was very fundamental and key to the development of every individual.
He cited that as a child from a deprived community, he was fortunate to advance through the secondary to tertiary level because he had the opportunity to access good quality education.
He added that the Government under which he serves is committed to creating innovative ways to enhance the quality of education, citing the application of STEM and Artificial Intelligence to solve problems as a form of learning and education.
Other seasoned speakers at the event including Citi FM’s award-winning super morning show host and General Manager, Bernard Koku Avle, Dr. Kofi Osei-Kusi Founder of Osei-Kusi Foundation, Mrs. Jackie Mpare, Mrs. Leonards, Mr. James Etornam Flolu, Mr. John Affaidzi Appiah, CEO of A-League Consult, Mr. Leonards among others were present to inspire and motivate the youth to champion the course of changing Africa to achieve sustainable development.
About IYDC
The International Youth Diplomacy Conference is a Model United Nations Simulation organized by INNOVATION FOR EMPOWERMENT AND DEVELOPMENT (IFED) GLOBAL, an organization that brings together youth across Africa each year to promote youth empowerment and positive leadership through its innovative and strategically planned activities such as Cultural networking sessions, career development workshops, Diplomatic speeches among others.
The Non-Governmental Organization which has been running for some years has hosted over 5,000 delegates from across the Continent and each year, the youth look forward to participating in this life-changing event.