The Chief Executive Officer of the National Youth Authority (NYA), Osman Abdullai Ayariga, Esq., has reaffirmed government’s commitment to youth empowerment at the official distribution of equipment to the first batch of beneficiaries under the National Apprenticeship Programme (NAP) in the Greater Accra Region.

The ceremony, attended by His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, Greater Accra Regional Minister Hon. Linda Akweley Ocloo, and Minister of Youth Development and Empowerment Hon. George Opare Addo, marked a significant milestone in Ghana’s youth employment agenda.

Speaking at the event, Mr. Ayariga described the programme as a “bold investment in Ghana’s future,” emphasizing that the initiative aligns with the vision outlined in the NDC 2024 manifesto, which prioritizes inclusive growth, job creation, and skills development.

“Youth empowerment is not charity; it is an invaluable investment and asset for Ghana’s future,” he reiterated, echoing President Mahama’s long-standing position.

Scaling Up Opportunities

The National Apprenticeship Programme was officially launched in Tamale last year, with an initial target of 10,000 apprentices. According to the President, the programme is expected to scale up to 100,000 beneficiaries annually by 2026, supported by a GH¢300 million allocation in the 2025 national budget.

Under the initiative, government covers training costs and provides stipends to apprentices, eliminating financial barriers that often hinder young people from acquiring vocational skills.

At the Greater Accra distribution ceremony, beneficiaries received sewing machines, hairdryers, safety gear, and professional toolboxes to support trades such as tailoring, carpentry, electrical installation, and cosmetology.

Bridging Education and Employment

Mr. Ayariga underscored the importance of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in driving industrialization and reducing poverty.

He noted that integrating apprenticeships into the national development framework ensures that young people are equipped with practical, employable skills aligned with Ghana’s evolving economy.

The NYA CEO pledged transparency and accountability in the implementation of the programme, assuring stakeholders that monitoring and evaluation mechanisms would ensure measurable impact for every Cedi invested.

The event concluded with a renewed call for collaboration among master craft persons, communities, and private sector partners to nurture and mentor beneficiaries.