Rising youth unemployment worrying — Rt Rev. Annancy
The Bishop of the Koforidua Diocese of the Anglican Church, Rt Rev. Felix Odei Annancy, has expressed concerns over the high level of unemployment in the country, particularly among the youth.
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He said the situation was rendering significant number of talented citizens and capable workforce redundant, thus, painting a gloomy picture of the country.
The bishop added that it was also leading to frustration and hopelessness among the youth which, if not addressed, could undermine the stability and progress of the country.
Rt Rev. Annancy was addressing the third session of the 14th synod of the Anglican Church at Larteh in the Akuapem North Municipality in the Eastern Region last Tuesday on the theme: "Doing God's work God's way: A call to faithful obedience, Zach 4:6.”
In attendance were members of the synod of the Anglican Church and some traditional rulers and queenmothers.
Other challenges
On agriculture, the Anglican head was not happy that the once flourishing sector had become a pale shadow of itself, threatening food security.
He mentioned other challenges to include high inflation rates, rising debt levels and corruption. Rt Rev. Annancy recalled that some years past, the country emerged as one of Africa's economic success stories because there were substantial improvements in various sectors of national development.
He, however, said that in recent times, the country had been faced with economic difficulties, affecting the cost of living of the people. The bishop mentioned income inequality as one of the most pressing concerns bedevilling citizens and widening the gap between the privileged few and the struggling majority.
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As a result, Rt Rev. Annancy said a significant portion of the population were struggling to access basic necessities.
He, therefore, called for collective efforts to confront the challenges head-on with commitment and dedication, adding that citizens must offer dedicated prayers for accelerated development of the nation.
Election
Rt Rev. Annancy also called for a peaceful election on December 7, this year, while urging the electorate to vote for a rightful person to administer the country successfully. He described this year’s election as crucial which requires all citizens to be steadfast and committed to peace regardless of the outcome of the polls.
The bishop further urged citizens to embrace peace and forbearance, while displaying kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control during the electioneering.
Financial situation
With regard to the financial situation of the diocese, Rt Rev. Annancy said it was not appreciable due to the low numerical strength of the diocese. He, therefore, requested that the priests, catechists and the entire leadership of the church grow their congregations by 50 per cent every year.
On the training of the clergy, Rt Rev. Annancy said many of them were pursuing theological courses, adding that at the tertiary level some of the priests would be ordinated.
Writer's email haruna.wunpini@graphic.com.gh