Gender equality in youth development in Ghana was a central theme during the Global Youth Workers Conference (GYWC) 2025. At the Gender Equality, Social Inclusion (GESI), and FPIC panel, Naomi, a Social Worker from the National Youth Authority (NYA), reminded participants that gender is not “an issue for other people.” It is about all of us.
“Gender is you and me. It’s about how we see each other and how society describes us.” – Naomi, NYA
This message is especially important in Ghana, where youth workers are shaping policies and programs that affect millions of young people.
Why Gender Equality Matters in Youth Development
Too often, gender conversations are sidelined or seen as affecting only women. Naomi challenged this thinking, urging youth workers to make GESI intentional, not optional.
At NYA, the National Youth Policy’s sixth thematic area focuses on eliminating gender discrimination and embedding inclusion across all initiatives. Directors and youth groups are trained to ensure fairness and equity are built into every project, leadership program, and youth development activity.
“GESI must be intentional. You need to put affirmative actions in place that make your activities fair and inclusive for both young men and women.” – Naomi
This call for intentional inclusion also connects with the principle of Free, Prior, and Informed Consent (FPIC). Learn more in our article on FPIC in Youth Engagement in Ghana: Nothing About Us Without Us.
Key Takeaways for Youth Workers in Ghana
-
Gender inclusion is a daily practice. It must be embedded in all youth development efforts, not treated as an afterthought.
-
Youth workers should lead the charge. Design and deliver programs that give equal opportunities to everyone.
-
Affirmative action matters. Sometimes deliberate steps are needed to correct historic imbalances.
When we start prioritizing gender equality in youth development in Ghana, we build stronger, fairer communities where young people can truly thrive.
The Global Connection
This call aligns with global frameworks. The UN Women Youth LEAP into Gender Equality r highlights how young people worldwide can drive inclusion when gender is mainstreamed into youth development programs. Ghana has a unique opportunity to lead in this space by making GESI a foundation, not an afterthought.