The Member of Parliament for the Offinso North Constituency, Fred Kyei Asamoah, has called on young people across the constituency and the country to actively participate in governance and decision-making processes to contribute meaningfully to national development.
According to him, the future of the nation lies largely in the hands of the youth, and their voices must be heard in shaping policies and initiatives that affect their communities and the country as a whole.
Dr. Kyei Asamoah made the call during a Youth Forum and the official launch of the Offinso North Anidasuo Students Assistantship Scholarship Programme, an initiative designed to support students pursuing tertiary education, particularly brilliant but financially disadvantaged students.
Addressing participants at the event, the lawmaker emphasized that youth participation in governance is crucial for sustainable development.
He encouraged young people to show interest in local government administration, community leadership, and policy discussions in order to contribute their ideas and perspectives to national progress.
“Development cannot be achieved without the active participation of the youth. Your voice matters, your ideas matter, and your involvement in governance will help shape a better future for our communities and the nation,” he stated.
Scholarship Support for Tertiary Students
As part of his commitment to improving educational opportunities within the constituency, Dr. Kyei Asamoah officially launched the Offinso North Anidasuo Students Assistantship Scholarship Programme to assist tertiary students who face financial challenges in pursuing their academic goals.
He explained that the initiative aims to ease the financial burden on students and their families while motivating academically gifted students to excel in their studies.
Under the programme, each beneficiary is expected to receive a minimum support package of GH¢2,000 and above, depending on the available resources and the needs of the student.
Dr. Kyei Asamoah expressed hope that the scholarship scheme would not only support deserving students but also inspire others within the constituency to pursue higher education with dedication and determination.
He further urged beneficiaries to take their education seriously and use the opportunity to build skills and knowledge that will help transform their communities in the future.
Concern Over Foreigners’ Control of Akomadan Dams
During the forum, the Member of Parliament also expressed deep concern over reports that some foreigners have taken control of dams in Akomadan that were originally constructed to support local farmers.
According to him, the development has deprived many local farmers, especially the youth, of access to water resources meant to support irrigation and agricultural production.
Dr. Kyei Asamoah assured residents that he would follow up on the issue to ensure that the dams serve their intended purpose of supporting local agriculture.
He explained that the dams were originally constructed during the era of former Head of State Ignatius Kutu Acheampong to enable farmers in Akomadan and surrounding communities to cultivate tomatoes and other crops throughout the year.
“The dam was constructed purposely for the people of Akomadan to support tomato farming and other agricultural activities. It is worrying to hear that foreigners are now dominating its use,” he said.
He therefore urged residents to remain calm and patient while steps are taken to address the situation.
Call for Investment in Youth Agriculture
Dr. Kyei Asamoah also used the occasion to call on the government, traditional authorities, stakeholders, and development partners to invest more in youth-driven agricultural initiatives.
He stressed that agriculture remains a key sector capable of providing employment and improving livelihoods, particularly for young people in rural communities.
The MP appealed to Nananom (traditional leaders), government agencies, and private sector players to collaborate in creating opportunities for young people to venture into agribusiness.
According to him, empowering the youth in agriculture will not only reduce unemployment but also strengthen food security and stimulate economic growth in the constituency and the country at large.
The Youth Forum attracted students, youth leaders, community members, and other stakeholders who commended the initiative and expressed optimism that the scholarship programme would significantly support tertiary students from the constituency.
Participants also welcomed the MP’s call for greater youth involvement in governance and agricultural development, describing it as a step toward empowering the next generation of leaders.
