Volunteerism Holds Key to National Development – Dennis Agyei Boateng Advocates at Book Launch
A passionate call has been made to integrate volunteerism into Ghana’s national development agenda, as a powerful tool to address key challenges in sectors such as education, healthcare, and environmental conservation.
This call came from Mr. Dennis Agyei Boateng, author of a newly launched book on volunteerism, who shared his motivations and vision for the publication during a media engagement at the launch ceremony. Mr. Agyei Boateng underscored the transformative potential of volunteerism, both as a social service and a platform for personal and professional empowerment.
“Volunteerism is more than giving free labor. It is a tool for empowering people, especially the youth, to contribute meaningfully to society while acquiring skills and experience that shape their future,” he stated.
He cited recent comments made by the Minister of Health on the re-engagement of retired nurses to fill workforce gaps, noting that such challenges could be effectively mitigated if the country had a well-structured national volunteer program.
Mr. Agyei Boateng argued that long-standing national issues require sustainable solutions beyond temporary measures. “Volunteerism must be embedded into national planning strategies,” he emphasized. “We need to begin seeing it as a long-term approach to community development, especially in education, sanitation, and health.”
He believes that by cultivating a culture of service among the youth, Ghana can nurture a generation of responsible citizens who are actively involved in nation-building.
Adding her voice to the conversation, the Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Youth Employment Agency (YEA), Miss Prisca Sedinam Kekeshie, shared her personal testimony of how volunteerism played a crucial role in her journey.
Speaking at the event, Miss Kekeshie expressed her excitement about participating in the launch not just as a dignitary, but as a proud product of volunteerism. “I am here because I know what volunteerism can do. It gave me the foundation to build my career and develop the discipline to lead and serve,” she said.
She noted that many young people today view volunteerism with skepticism or as a punishment, rather than an opportunity. She urged the youth to see it as a platform to learn, gain practical experience, and contribute to positive change in their communities.
“Volunteerism comes with great comfort – the comfort of knowing you are making a difference without necessarily expecting rewards,” she stressed. “It fosters purpose, responsibility, and above all, national growth.”
Miss Kekeshie concluded by encouraging government agencies, civil society, and the private sector to collaborate in promoting volunteerism nationwide, emphasizing its vital role in youth development and sustainable progress.
The launch ceremony brought together youth leaders, development practitioners, educators, and civil society actors, all united by a shared belief that Ghana’s progress depends on active citizenship, selfless service, and a renewed commitment to volunteerism.
