Municipal and District Chief Executives (M/DCEs) in the Eastern Region on Wednesday ended a day's workshop in Koforidua, aimed at sensitizing them on the plans Government has outlined to improve the Youth in Agriculture Programme, afforestation and a special cassava/gari processing initiative by SIDALCO Company.
Mr Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo, Eastern Regional Minister, reminded the participants of the importance of the workshop in view of the role they play in the grassroots governance structure of the country.
He observed that the organization of periodic workshop for M/DCEs has a learning significance, since it provides them with the unique opportunity to learn from each other by exchanging ideals, updating their knowledge on
policies of government and good governance practices.
"Furthermore it is expected that at such meetings you have the opportunity to share experiences that can broaden your horizon and better equip you to cope with the challenges of your call to high office."
Mr Ofosu-Ampofo told the participants that the holding of the workshop was not only appropriate, but also opportune in view of the mounting pressure on government by the youth to create more job avenues to engage them.
He observed that the majority of the youth in the country are unemployed and that the situation is a potential source of agitation, which must be nipped in the bud.
"This can be done through the introduction or rejuvenation of Employment Creation Programmes such as the National Youth Employment
Programme, the Youth in Agriculture Programme and other small businesses, which potentially offer good employment opportunities".
Mr Ofosu-Ampofo said the government was poised to improve upon the National Youth Employment and Youth in Agriculture Programmes, with a view to enhancing their viability as employment options.
He told the participants that as leaders in the local governance system in their respective districts their major responsibility is to create change in their assemblies.
Mr Ofosu-Ampofo said they could do that by building the best teams, focus on delivery, build relationships, accept feedback, develop others, be accountable and set standards among others.