The Country Director of the International Youth Fellowship (IYF) Ghana, Dr. David Oh, has emphasized the importance of youth acknowledging their God-given potential and utilizing it for both personal and national development. He pointed out that although God has endowed every individual with full potential, many limit themselves and only use 10 percent or 30 percent, failing to maximize or realize their full potential.
Dr. David Oh, during his visits to several African countries, identified Ghana as the best country, stressing that it requires its citizenry to be filled with a positive mindset to foster national development, regardless of their differences.
He was speaking at the 2024 National Youth Conference organized by the International Youth Fellowship (IYF) in collaboration with the Ministry of Youth and Sports and the National Youth Authority. The 4-day event, currently ongoing at the University of Professional Studies (UPSA) in Accra, hosts more than 2,000 youth from across Ghana.
During the occasion, the Pro Vice-Chancellor of the Koforidua Technical University, Prof. Richard Ohene Asiedu, in his remarks, mentioned that the young people of Ghana need to recognize the importance of using technological opportunities, which must be met with equal responsibility and a vision that transcends personal gains.
Prof. Asiedu stressed the need for participants at the conference to use the platform provided to create connections, networking opportunities, and collaborations that will have a lasting impact on their future.
He urged the youth to strive to become job creators and not just job seekers.
Remarks from Other Dignitaries
Nana Kwaku Essiani V
The Nifahene of Agona Swedru, Nana Kwaku Essiani V, and Regent Chief of Agona Swedru applauded the organizers of the event, noting that he has personally benefited from the Mindset Education series by the International Youth Fellowship (IYF) Ghana. He shared that he used to be quick-tempered but has experienced a significant change in his life, much to the admiration of his family and subjects.
Nana Bema Kodju
The Head of Strategy at GCB Bank PLC, Nana Bema Kodju, in her remarks, said that the youth are the driving force of our uncertain future. She emphasized the importance of building positive credit to become attractive entrepreneurs who can contribute to building the national economy.
Nana Bema stated that GCB Bank will continue to support the youth through its various youth-focused products and services and will maintain this support as the bank has done over the past 70 years.
Dr. Jin Sung Kim
The Guest Speaker for the 2024 National Youth Conference, Dr. Jin Sung Kim, stressed the importance of having a positive mindset. He said that whatever name we give to our life circumstances becomes our reality.
Dr. Kim shared that Korea was in abject poverty and hunger in the 1800s. He stated that Mindset Education played a significant role in accelerating South Korea’s development, and he believes it will be equally essential for Ghana.
Dr. Jin Sung Kim recounted how Korea was underdeveloped and poor in the 1800s, and in the 1900s, Japan colonized them. Koreans were forced into battle and used as slaves in the war. Their natural resources and other assets were taken over by Japan until 1940 when other countries colonized by Japan gained independence.
1948 marked the establishment of Korea’s first government, and two years later, the Korean War began. From 1950 to 1953, the war between the North and the South affected every single family, resulting in 10 million separated families and 100,000 war orphans. Despite these challenges, South Korea emerged from severe economic hardship. Dr. Kim emphasized that a positive shift in the mindset of a people is key to realizing economic transformation.
Acknowledgement to Our Partners
The 4-day 2024 National Youth Conference has been made possible through the support of UPSA, GCB Bank PLC, KGL Foundation, McDan Group, FirstBanc, and Engineers and Planners. Other sponsors include Sentuo Oil Refinery, Geocom Group, TLB Enterprise, MLG Engineering, B Foster Bakery, Amigo Bread Company, GB Foods, Vivo Energy, Telecel Ghana, Special Ice, Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority, Latex Foam, Kwarleyz Residence, and Standard Chartered Bank.
Contact IYF Communications Manager Frederick Tetteh on 0241992377 or email iyfred23@gmail.com.