Muslim youth must resist negative influences and drive national development – Malik Oware

The General Secretary of the Heralds of Islamic Message (HIM), Malik Oware, has urged Muslim youth in Ghana to resist negative influences and channel the discipline acquired during Ramadan into national development.

Speaking on the Asaase Breakfast Show on Friday (20 March), Oware said many young people struggle to maintain the spiritual discipline observed during Ramadan due to external pressures and “satanic influences” that encourage harmful behaviour.

According to him, the post-Ramadan period presents a critical test of character, especially for young Muslims navigating social temptations such as substance abuse and misconduct.

“As we complete the fasting period, the same forces that distract us begin to whisper again—encouraging behaviours like smoking and indiscipline. But we must recognise that these are not harmless habits; they derail our purpose,” he said.

Oware emphasised that human beings were created with the capacity for excellence and innovation, arguing that young people must not reduce their potential to destructive lifestyles.

“The same human being who invents aeroplanes and builds infrastructure is the one who chooses to sit idle and engage in harmful habits. We must choose productivity over destruction,” he noted.

He further highlighted youth unemployment as a pressing concern, calling on political leaders to take the aspirations of young people more seriously. He criticised dismissive attitudes toward job-seeking youth, particularly those applying for roles in the security services.

“These young people are ready to work. Instead of making light of their efforts, leaders should create opportunities and support them,” he said.

Oware warned that failure to provide opportunities could push frustrated youth into crime, including cyber fraud and other illegal activities.

On education, he advocated a balanced approach that values both academic and vocational training, stressing that all disciplines are essential to national development.

He also pointed to the strong memorisation abilities of young Muslims in Qur’anic education as evidence of their intellectual potential, arguing that the same capacity could be harnessed in science, technology and other fields.

“If a child can memorise large portions of the Qur’an at a young age, then that same child can excel in science, engineering, or medicine if properly guided,” he said.

Oware concluded by urging young Muslims to remain disciplined, pursue education seriously, and contribute positively to society.