Accra: The youth in the Tema metropolis have expressed that social media platforms serve as empowering tools, positively impacting their lives.
According to Ghana News Agency, social media has become a significant influence in the lives of young people, shaping their communication, social interactions, and access to information.
The youth have acknowledged that despite the downsides of social media, it plays a crucial role in empowering them to connect, learn, and effect change in the world. Mr. Solomon Nii Kpakpo Annang, a fashion designer, highlighted that social media provides young entrepreneurs with opportunities to start and grow businesses by connecting with customers, promoting products and services, and building brands.
Mr. Annang further emphasized that social media acts as a valuable source of information, allowing young individuals to access news, educational materials, and opportunities for both personal and professional development. Miss Roberta Kwapong, a graduate, pointed out that social media enables youth to connect by sharing interests, passions, and experiences through online communities and discussions, thereby fostering networks of support and collaboration.
Ms. Kwapong also noted that these platforms offer a space for young people to share ideas, experiences, and perspectives with a broader audience, using them to raise awareness about meaningful issues, challenge societal norms, and advocate for change. She added that social media can mobilize youth for civic action by organizing protests, rallies, and campaigns to promote social justice and political transformation.
Mr. Jefferson Adjei, a graphic designer, mentioned that social media serves as a source of entertainment, helping to relieve stress after a long day's work. Meanwhile, Miss Elizabeth Quansah, a boutique owner, advised that while social media provides benefits, the youth should remain cautious of its challenges, including cyberbullying, misinformation, loss of focus, and privacy concerns, and limit their overreliance on these platforms.
