Prof. Alidu Seidu calls for informed democratic participation at Youth Democracy Forum

The Head of Political Science Department at the University of Ghana Professor Alidu Seidu says it is critical to understand the democratic continuum within a state.

Speaking at the Youth Democracy Forum organized by CDS Africa at Wisconsin University College, Professor Seidu said understanding the essence of democracy requires a nuanced examination of the democratic landscape.

He further intimated that the consolidation of these democratic tenets directly contributes to the enhancement of participation in democratic processes.

Prof Seidu spoke about the importance of measuring participation accurately, as it differentiates between non-participants and active participants in democratic processes.

He mentioned that employing measurable strategies aids in gauging the inclusivity and activity levels of democracy, providing a foundation for structural implementations aimed at increasing democratic participation in a state.

Professor Seidu called for strategic measures such as education and the provision of systemic support, including rewards for individuals who champion democracy and actively engage in democratic processes.

For her part, a brand consultant at the School of Communications, Wisconsin University, Akosua Naana Lexis Obenewaa Opoku-Agyeman said that democracy transcends a mere political system, describing it as a fundamental human right.

Speaking at the same event, Madam Akosua Opoku-Agyeman stressed the importance of every individual understanding their role in promoting democracy.

She criticized the assertion that “our voices are only heard in our rooms”, affirming that citizens have the right to demand accountability from their elected leaders.

Akosua Opoku-Agyeman pointed out the fact that the platform provided by CDS Africa’s Youth Democracy Forum is an opportunity for spreading important messages to promote democracy.

Encouraging youth to envision a future where every voice matters and every vote counts, she called for a collective effort to build a brighter future for Ghana.