National Mock Parliament Speakers Vow to Champion Affirmative Action Implementation

The inaugural session of Ghana’s National Mock Parliament, organized by Parliamentary Network Africa (PNAfrica), saw student leaders from various tertiary institutions across the country converge to debate and strategize on the Affirmative Action Bill.

The event, held on August 28, 2024, in Accra, marks a significant step towards engaging the youth in national governance and policy-making processes.

Elisha Supiir Npoangnan, the newly elected Speaker of the National Mock Parliament, expressed his gratitude and the weight of responsibility that comes with his role.

“It is a serious and great privilege to serve as the first Speaker of this House, This platform provides us with the opportunity to propel national topics to the highest level. Our goal is to champion the ideas and concerns of the youth, particularly on issues like the Gender Equality Bill,” Npoangnan said.

**Speaker Elisha with clerks and the Mock parliamentarians**

Npoangnan emphasized the importance of continuing the work beyond the parliamentary session, stating, “When we return to our localities, we will continue to engage and educate stakeholders on these critical issues. We are fully committed to supporting this national agenda.”

Justice Alor, the Majority Leader, highlighted the significance of the day’s discussions, particularly the debate on the Affirmative Action Bill, which is nearing presidential assent.

“We live in a world where marginalization and discrimination persist. It is crucial for us as young people to ensure that this bill becomes law and that it is implemented effectively. Today’s session was not just about practice; it was about providing practical implementation suggestions that could help realize the full potential of this agenda,” Alor stated.

**The Majority caucus of mock parliament**

Alor called on young Ghanaians to take an active role in shaping the country’s future. “We must take inspiration from leaders like Kofi Annan, who reminded us that tomorrow depends on us. Our involvement in decision-making processes, from our homes to our schools and beyond, is essential for the progress of our nation.”

The Mock Parliament, which includes representatives from student parliaments across various universities such as the University of Ghana, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Wisconsin International University College and Takoradi Technical University, as well as the National Youth Authority, served as an invaluable experience for all participants.

The session provided a platform for students to not only debate national issues, but also to learn parliamentary practices and procedures.

On his part, Prosper Dyon Akoto, the Minority Leader, underscored the need for continued advocacy and education on the Affirmative Action Bill.

“We are empowering all student speakers and national youth parliamentarians to return to their constituents with the message of affirmative action. This is not just about passing a law; it’s about ensuring that the law has a tangible impact on the people it is meant to serve,” he said.

**Minority caucus of the students mock parliament**

Akoto further mentioned plans to extend outreach efforts to basic schools, advocating and educating younger students on the importance of affirmative action and how they can seek support when needed.

“Empowering the next generation to speak out and understand their rights is crucial for making the Affirmative Action Bill a practical reality for all Ghanaians,” he concluded.

The National Mock Parliament is part of a broader initiative by PNAfrica to enhance civic participation among Ghana’s youth, providing them with the tools and platforms necessary to engage meaningfully in the country’s governance.