Former New Patriotic Party (NPP) National Chairman Awentami Paul Afoko has urged young Ghanaians to embrace civic courage and take an active role in safeguarding the country’s democracy, stressing that “democracy cannot defend or sustain itself” without the bold voices of the youth.
Speaking at the fifth edition of the Dialogue Public Lecture held at the Ama Ata Aidoo Centre for Creative Writing at the African University of Communications and Business (AUCB) on November 2025, the seasoned political figure said Ghana’s democratic ideals of freedom and justice depend largely on the willingness of the younger generation to speak up, challenge wrongdoing, and uphold integrity.
The event, moderated by Sabina Sarsa of AUCB’s School of Research and Graduate Studies, was organised under the theme “Civic Courage: Speaking Up, Standing Up, and Making a National Impact.” The lecture forms part of an intentional effort by the university to create a safe platform where young Ghanaians can explore the real-life demands of public engagement.
Afoko opened his presentation by paying tribute to the late Ama Ata Aidoo, describing her as an “outstanding woman who refused to conform to the subjugation of women and the limitations placed on Africans.” Her life, he said, embodies the conviction and bravery the current generation must adopt.
Quoting Aidoo’s famous assertion that “true courage is not the absence of fear but the presence of conviction, conviction, not comfort,” the former NPP Chairman emphasised that speaking up does not require the absence of fear. Rather, it demands a deep sense of responsibility and moral clarity, even when the environment is unsupportive.
“Our culture does not permit children or the youth to speak freely,” he acknowledged, “but that should never be an excuse to remain silent.” He challenged students and young citizens to resist cultural pressures that silence them, saying Ghana’s progress depends on conscientious citizens willing to question, criticise, and stand their ground when the nation’s values are threatened.
Afoko’s address set the tone for a reflective and thought-provoking interaction with the audience, reinforcing the central message that civic courage is an essential daily practice, not a momentary act. The Dialogue Public Lecture series continues to position AUCB as a hub for nurturing bold thinkers dedicated to national development.
