Mamfe-akuapem: Artisan groups in Mamfe-Akuapem have received apprenticeship kits under the National Apprenticeship Programme to help learners gain practical skills for employment. The items were presented at a ceremony in the forecourt of Kyedomhene's palace, with beneficiaries drawn from trades such as dressmaking, tailoring, beauty arts, plumbing, masonry, and carpentry.
According to Ghana News Agency, Nana Andah Sasraku III, Kyedomhene of Akuapem and Chief of Mamfe, expressed satisfaction with the government's efforts to address youth unemployment. He emphasized that success is not solely dependent on academic certificates and urged the youth to take their training seriously. He also warned that the desire for quick wealth could hinder progress and encouraged apprentices to exhibit humility, discipline, and commitment. He called on masters to be patient and dedicated in training their learners to ensure quality craftsmanship.
Mr. John Evans Kumordzi, the Municipal Chief Executive for Akuapem North, expressed a desire for the beneficiaries to receive even more tools and noted that the government's skills development initiatives were just beginning. He praised the efforts of the National Youth Authority, the Youth Employment Agency, and other partners for facilitating the distribution, urging masters to ensure the tools are actively used.
Other speakers, including Mr. Fohad Agbenyadzi, Deputy National Coordinator of NYA, and Mr. Emmanuel Asante Ofori, Eastern Regional Coordinator of the National Apprenticeship Programme, encouraged the trainees to focus on building sustainable careers. Items distributed included sewing machines, industrial machines, knitting machines, hair dryers, and masonry tools.
Beneficiary David Quaye Mensah, locally known as Twuanogu, expressed his gratitude for the items and praised the government, NYA, and YEA for their support. Each selected apprentice also receives a GHS 300.00 monthly allowance. Fashion design apprentice Ms. Lydia Asare Ansah expressed her gratitude, saying she was overwhelmed by the support and thankful for the sewing machine, industrial machine, and other items she received.