Celebrate Valentine responsibly - George Opare Addo cautions youth
The Ministry of Youth Development and Empowerment has urged young people across the country to mark this year’s Valentine’s Day with responsibility and self-discipline, cautioning against drug abuse, risky sexual behaviour and other choices that could jeopardise their health and future.
In a message to the youth ahead of the annual celebration of love and friendship today, the Minister of Youth Development and Empowerment, George Opare Addo, appealed to young people to reflect on the deeper values of respect, care and responsibility rather than indulgence and peer pressure.
He said Valentine’s Day should be an occasion that uplifts and empowers the youth, not one that exposes them to harm.
“Valentine's Day should be a celebration of love that builds, not destroys. I urge our youth to cherish themselves, respect themselves, respect their bodies, and commit to choices that secure their future,” the minister stated.
Growing cases
Mr Opare Addo expressed concern about the growing incidence of substance abuse among young people, warning that drugs and alcohol not only damage the body and mind but also derail the aspirations of many promising young Ghanaians.
He said the increasing prevalence of teenage pregnancies and rising HIV infections among the youth remained equally troubling, with serious consequences for education, personal development and long-term opportunities.
“These challenges require urgent collective action to protect the well-being of young people and to secure the nation’s future,” he stressed.
The minister advised young people to avoid treating the day as an excuse for reckless behaviour, including excessive drinking and unprotected sex.
Instead, he encouraged them to demonstrate affection in safer and more meaningful ways.
“Let us also distinguish this day as a day free of substance abuse, including alcohol.
Let us remember not to offer sex as a gift on this day but offer chocolate to a loved one,” he said.
Role of guardians
Beyond the youth themselves, the ministry also called on parents, guardians, teachers and community leaders to play an active role in guiding young people, particularly at a time when social pressures and negative influences were on the rise.
Mr Opare Addo emphasised that families, schools and communities remained critical in shaping the values and decisions of the younger generation, adding that consistent mentorship and open conversations could help them make better life choices.
He reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to promoting programmes and initiatives that support youth development, discipline and empowerment nationwide.
