The Ministry of Youth Development and Empowerment (MYDE) has inaugurated a Steering Committee to oversee the implementation of its partnership with the Christian Council of Ghana (CCG) to address substance abuse among young people.

The committee will coordinate programmes under a five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed by the two institutions on August 4, 2026, to promote youth development, positive behavioural change and preventive interventions.

Under the agreement, the Ministry will provide policy direction, while the Christian Council will support the implementation of youth-focused initiatives through its Sound Youth, Sound Nation (SYSNA) Programme.

The programme aims to promote responsible citizenship, patriotism, life skills, counselling support, preventive education and community engagement to help young people make informed decisions and avoid substance abuse.

Speaking at the inauguration, the Minister for Youth Development and Empowerment, George Opare Addo, said substance abuse remained a major concern for youth development and required sustained collaboration among government, religious institutions, families and communities.

He commended the Christian Council for partnering with the Ministry, emphasising the role of faith-based organisations in providing moral guidance, shaping values and encouraging responsible behaviour among young people.

Opare Addo said the inauguration fulfilled a key requirement of the MoU, which provides for a joint oversight structure to ensure effective coordination and implementation of the agreed programmes.

The Steering Committee will approve annual work plans and budgets, review progress, address implementation challenges, mobilise resources and ensure accountability. It will also coordinate stakeholders and recommend improvements and possible expansion of the programmes.

The Minister urged committee members to prioritise measurable results, including increased awareness of the dangers of substance abuse, improved youth well-being and reduced vulnerability to social risks.

He assured the committee of the Ministry’s support and encouraged members to discharge their responsibilities with integrity, professionalism and a commitment to achieving the partnership’s objectives.

Through the collaboration, the two institutions aim to strengthen preventive education, counselling services and community-based interventions to promote healthier choices and improve the well-being of young Ghanaians.