The newly elected President of the Gonjaland Youth Association (GLYA), Al-Hassan Baba Darison, has unveiled an ambitious agenda to tackle youth unemployment, promote cultural heritage, and ensure financial stability within the Association and Gonjaland as whole.
He delivered his vision at the Association’s Handing Over and Fundraising Ceremony held on Saturday, May 31, 2025, at the Kofi Ohene-Konadu Auditorium Left Wing, University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA).
Speaking before a gathering of traditional leaders, religious heads, dignitaries, youth leaders, and representatives from sister associations including VAYA, DAYA, KOYA, and NAYA, Mr. Darison described the event as a pivotal transition point for GLYA.
“This moment is not just ceremonial; it is transitional,” he said. “It marks the graceful exit of a committed leadership team and the hopeful emergence of a new one ready to build on the gains made.”
He commended the outgoing executives for their resilience and dedication, noting that the new leadership will operate on principles of unity, accountability, and service.
Mr. Darison outlined a seven-point development agenda that includes purpose-driven leadership, youth empowerment, cultural promotion, capacity building, diaspora engagement, institutional strengthening, and sustainable fundraising.
He drew attention to alarming statistics from the Savannah Region, including over 38% youth unemployment and a literacy rate of just 32.8%, calling them daily realities for young people in the region.
He also highlighted the region's underdeveloped tourism potential, especially around Mole National Park, and the endangered status of the Gonja language.
To address funding challenges, the president launched a dues mobilization campaign targeting 1,000 members contributing a minimum of GHS 100 monthly an initiative expected to raise GHS 100,000 each month to fund scholarships, youth enterprises, cultural activities, and national operations.
“This is not about giving out of abundance, but out of conviction,” he stated. “Conviction that the future of our youth is worth investing in.”
Mr. Darison also announced plans for GLYA’s 50th Anniversary celebration next year, which will honour past leaders and outline a vision for the Association’s future.
In conclusion, he reaffirmed the Association’s commitment to progress: “We are not here to reinvent the Association. We are here to strengthen it… Let us rise with one heart, one purpose, and one vision Unity. Peace. Development.”
Source: kashafmonline.com
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