Accra: Acting Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie has expressed concern that many young people are unwilling to invest time and effort in life’s foundational processes, preferring instead to ‘make it quick.’

According to Ghana News Agency, Justice Baffoe-Bonnie voiced the concern during a leadership seminar organised for the Orange Girls Justice Club in Accra, under the theme: ‘Looking beyond the present, creating visionary young women.’ He emphasized that judges and lawyers had risen through the ranks ‘through vision, hard work and sheer will to overcome numerous obstacles,’ sharing his own experiences of rising from a humble background through dedication.

The Acting Chief Justice highlighted the importance of the seminar’s theme, particularly in the context of Ghana’s growing youth population. He underscored the judiciary’s responsibility beyond the courtroom to promote equity, equality, and youth advancement, which is reflected in the Annual Chief Justice Mentoring Programme.

Justice Baffoe-Bonnie noted the positive impact of continued engagement with the Orange Girls, with two members currently pursuing tertiary education, supported by judicial mentors. He stressed the establishment of judicial clubs in senior high schools as an effective youth empowerment tool.

Encouraging the girls to recognise their potential, he stated, ‘Our Orange Girls have the greatest opportunity to become better because you have the gift of mentors, count yourselves blessed, but even more so because you are the agents of change in your communities.’

Mr. Musah Ahmed, Judicial Secretary, highlighted the misleading narratives about wealth and success that young people, particularly females, face. He stressed the importance of educational seminars to inspire young women to value hard work and perseverance.

Justice Professor Olivia Anku-Tsede, Chairperson of the Chief Justice Mentoring Planning Committee, advised the girls to maintain discipline and integrity. Meanwhile, Mr. Faisal Bawa from UNFPA expressed the organisation’s commitment to supporting the Orange Girls programme in uplifting marginalised and disadvantaged girls.