Minister Opare-Addo and YEA CEO Malik Basintale Warn of Drug Abuse and Digital Privacy Risks at National Youth Forum

The National Youth Forum held in Accra has served as a critical platform for government officials to address escalating social and health threats facing young Ghanaians. The Minister for Youth Development and Empowerment, George Opare-Addo, used the occasion to declare drug abuse a burgeoning national crisis, citing its devastating impact on families and the broader social fabric. Alongside these health concerns, Malik Basintale, Chief Executive Officer of the Youth Employment Agency (YEA), raised alarms regarding digital safety, specifically advising the youth to refrain from recording intimate moments that could lead to irreparable reputational damage through social media leaks and unauthorized circulation.

Minister Opare-Addo highlighted the emergence of dangerous new substances, specifically mentioning a drug known as "Colus," which has increasingly found its way into schools and local communities. He emphasized that the government, under the administration of President John Mahama, is committed to leading advocacy efforts but stressed that the battle against addiction requires a collective approach involving families, educational institutions, and the youth themselves. By encouraging active participation in policymaking and direct feedback on government initiatives, the Minister hopes to create a more resilient support system for those vulnerable to substance abuse.

Adding to the discourse on youth welfare, Malik Basintale addressed the contemporary challenge of digital footprints and the risks associated with the age of social media. He cautioned attendees against the habit of documenting private, intimate encounters, noting that while previous generations maintained their privacy through discretion, modern digital tools have made young people far more susceptible to blackmail and public shaming. Basintale urged the youth to exercise extreme caution in an era where digital content can be shared instantly and without consent, emphasizing that private lives should remain strictly private to protect future career prospects and personal dignity.

Beyond social and health warnings, the forum touched on the economic drivers of youth development. The Youth Employment Agency announced plans to roll out new employment programs specifically tailored for graduates to mitigate the frustrations that often lead to social vices and substance dependency. By providing viable economic alternatives, the government aims to bridge the gap between education and employment. The session concluded with a unified call for young Ghanaians to remain vigilant and proactive in securing their health, digital privacy, and economic well-being as the nation moves forward.