The National Apprenticeship Programme (NAP), a flagship government initiative aimed at tackling youth unemployment, bridging the skills gap, and promoting economic growth across Ghana, is recording notable impact among young beneficiaries in the Fanteakwa South District.
The programme provides free apprenticeship training that combines 30 percent classroom instruction with 70 percent hands-on practical learning under qualified trainers and master craft persons. It also offers nationally recognised certification and starter tools upon completion, enabling beneficiaries to pursue employment or establish their own businesses in sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, ICT, fashion, construction, renewable energy, and traditional crafts, while promoting inclusivity for women, persons with disabilities, and youth from underserved communities.
Beneficiaries in the district have expressed profound gratitude to President John Dramani Mahama for what they describe as a life-changing initiative that is equipping young people with employable skills and promoting entrepreneurship.
According to them, the programme has provided practical vocational training, renewed hope, and a clear pathway to economic independence. They noted that the initiative has equipped them with the knowledge, confidence, and tools needed to establish sustainable livelihoods and contribute meaningfully to national development.
They also commended the Eastern Regional Coordinator of the programme, Mr. Emmanuel Asante Ofori, for his dedication and commitment to ensuring the successful implementation of the initiative in the region. The beneficiaries further expressed appreciation to the Eastern Regional Minister, Hon. Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey, for supporting participants with allowances to cater for their upkeep throughout the training period.
The beneficiaries highlighted that enrolment onto the programme was completely free and that participants were not required to pay any fees. They added that trainees were provided with tools, equipment, and machines upon completion to enable them to start their own businesses immediately.
They encouraged other young people across the country to take advantage of the programme, describing it as a unique opportunity to acquire valuable skills and improve their economic prospects. They pledged to make effective use of the training and tools received to create employment opportunities and support their families.
The beneficiaries further emphasized that the initiative has restored hope and offered many young people a second chance at life, expressing confidence that it will contribute significantly to local economic growth and national development.
The National Apprenticeship Programme remains a key pillar of government’s broader strategy to reduce unemployment and strengthen vocational and technical training across Ghana.
By Citizen Kofi Owusu | #CitizenSpeaks
