Mr Issahaku Abdul-Latif, Coordinator of the Northern Regional Chapter of Activista Ghana, a youth wing of ActionAid Ghana, has urged the youth to draw inspiration from the visionary leadership of the country’s first President, Dr Kwame Nkrumah to advance sustainable national development.

In an interview with the Ghana News Agency in Tamale to mark this year’s Founders’ Day, Mr Abdul-Latif stressed that Dr Nkrumah’s principles of patriotism, selflessness, and dedication to nation-building remained relevant to Ghana’s socio-economic transformation.

He noted that Dr Nkrumah’s leadership extended beyond securing independence in 1957, reflecting in his bold policies on education, industrialization, Pan-Africanism, and youth empowerment.

“The youth of today must rise and embrace these values if we want to secure a prosperous future for ourselves and the next generation,” he said.

Mr Abdul-Latif called on young people to rise above partisan divisions and focus on innovation, community service, and leadership that placed the welfare of citizens at the centre of national progress.

He added that the active participation of the youth in governance, policy advocacy, and development initiatives would accelerate the country’s efforts towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

He reaffirmed Activista Ghana’s commitment to providing platforms for youth engagement in national conversations, accountability processes, and solution-driven initiatives to address pressing social and economic issues.

Founders’ Day, observed annually on September 21, commemorates the birthday of Dr Kwame Nkrumah and his contributions to Ghana’s independence and post-colonial development.

The day is marked with events and reflections on his enduring legacy in shaping the nation’s political, social, and economic trajectory.

Mr Abdul-Latif encouraged youth groups, student bodies, and community-based organisations to use the commemoration to renew their commitment to unity, patriotism, and visionary leadership.