The Impact of Governmental Actions and Inactions on the Level of Political Participation on the Ghanaian Youth and how it affects Sustainable Development: A Focus on Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology

Abstract

It is imperative for the youth in every democratic country to be involved in the politics related activities as this can have a great impact on the attainment of sustainable development goals like quality education, good health and well-being, decent work and economic growth, peace, justice and strong institutions. The youth mostly constitute majority of the population, due to this, their active involvement is very important.  However, there are certain challenges that prevent the youth from participating effectively. Focusing on Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, the study examines the impact of governmental actions and inactions on the political participation of the Ghanaian youth and how it affects sustainable development. It also examines some challenges that prevent them from participating effectively. A mixed-method approach was employed to collect and analyze data. The study confirms that most of the actions and inactions of government has had a negative impact on the level of political participation of Ghanaians. It also argues that there have been other factors that limit this political participation. It was also noted that sustainable development can be affected positively or negatively by the level of political participation of the youth and then further provides recommendations.