Buertey Francis BORYOR
Volunteerism as a fundamental component of philanthropy and its potential to support national development has been highlighted at this year’s Ghana Philanthropy Conference in Accra.
The two-day conference, spearheaded by Star Ghana Foundation (SGF), aimed at providing a platform for dialogue among stakeholders on promoting philanthropy as a strategy for inclusive and sustainable national development.
Additionally, it sought to elevate volunteerism as a form of giving in solidarity and in fulfilling social and civic responsibility.
Themed ‘Volunteerism as Civic Action’, the event brought together NGOs, CSOs, identifiable groups and individuals from across the country to deliberate on philanthropy and volunteerism, particularly among the youth.
Head of Programmes – Star Ghana Foundation, Eunice Agbenyadzi, addressing the media after the event, said by mobilising citizens to volunteer their time, skills and resources to support various community projects, “we can address some of the developmental challenges facing our country”.
While calling for policy restructuring and inclusion of a framework to promote philanthropy for sustainable development, she urged all, particularly the youth, to embrace volunteerism and give generously to the underprivileged and needy in society at all times.
“This conference is examining the need to support citizens, especially the youth, to become active in community development so that the country benefits greatly from informal and formal volunteerism.
“We are also looking at how best we can collaborate with government to ensure an environment that incentivises people to give,” Ms. Agbenyadzi also noted.
Furthermore, she commended the National Youth Authority for introducing national volunteerism projects and programmes which encourage all, regardless of educational status, to volunteer their time to the country’s development.
Former Parish Priest of Christ the King Catholic Church, Rev. Fr. Andrew Campbell, stressed the transformative power of volunteerism and philanthropy, asking volunteers not to give up but strive to help others in society, despite challenges.
He expressed worry about the decreasing willingness of people to make sacrifices for the country. “Our youth today want things too easily, instant happiness. They have to be taught to give.”
Meanwhile, the Minister of Youth and Sports, Mustapha Ussif, in a speech read on his behalf, emphasised that youth volunteerism is crucial for national development.
According to him, volunteerism fosters social cohesion, promotes active citizenship and develops valuable skills among young people. He said it is, therefore, a key component of the ministry’s strategy to empower youth and promote sports development.
The event was organised by the SGF, in partnership with the Ghana Philanthropy Forum, West Africa Civil Society Institute (WACSI), the University of Ghana Centre for Social Policy Studies, the CSOs SDGs Platform, the National Youth Authority and the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection.
