Hot SourceThe fight against youth unemployment received a major boost on Monday as 2,060 young people from the Volta Region were officially enrolled into the National Apprenticeship Programme (NAP) at a colourful matriculation and induction ceremony held at the Jubilee Park in Ho.
The landmark event, graced by the Volta Regional Minister, James Gunu, and the Chief Executive Officer of the National Youth Authority (NYA), Hon. Osman Abdulai Ayariga, brought together master craft persons, apprentices, government officials and stakeholders in skills development.
James Gunu described the programme’s launch in the region as a “pivotal moment” for youth empowerment and the region’s economic future. According to him, the NAP — a flagship initiative under President John Mahama’s administration — directly addresses youth unemployment and skills gaps that have hindered Ghana’s industrial growth.
“Through this initiative, government is not just creating opportunities but building a skilled workforce that will shape the future of this country,” he declared. He further revealed that the programme has been secured with a GHC300 million allocation in the 2025 national budget to ensure its sustainability.
On his part, NYA CEO Osman Abdulai Ayariga hailed the initiative as “one of the boldest expressions” of the Authority’s mission to empower young people.
“The National Apprenticeship Programme is a bridge between raw talents and employable skills, between dreams and livelihoods, between potential and prosperity,” he said. He added that the programme fits seamlessly into the Volta Region’s long-standing tradition of resilience, resourcefulness, and industry.
Under the pilot phase in Volta, 2,060 apprentices have been placed under the guidance of 412 master craft persons across various trades. Beneficiaries are expected to receive free competency-based training, monthly stipends, and start-up equipment upon graduation.
The ceremony also featured a symbolic matriculation pledge, along with the presentation of ID cards and training materials, officially marking the apprentices’ journey under the programme.
Stakeholders expressed optimism that the NAP will not only reduce unemployment but also stimulate entrepreneurship, boost self-reliance, and enhance the region’s economic fortunes.
With this launch, Volta has set the pace in demonstrating how strategic investment in youth skills can shape Ghana’s development trajectory.
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