The Minister for Youth Development and Empowerment, George Opare Addo, has assured stakeholders that the implementation of the National Apprenticeship Program (NAP) will be free from political interference.
Addressing a stakeholder engagement session in Takoradi, Western Region, the Minister acknowledged past missteps in youth-focused initiatives, notably the Local Enterprises and Skills Development Program (LESDEP), which he said lost momentum due to partisan interests.
“This time, we are committed to ensuring that every Ghanaian youth, regardless of political affiliation, benefits from this program. The NAP will be driven by merit, transparency, and results.”
The NAP aims to empower young Ghanaians with practical skills by pairing them with experienced master trainers across trades such as tailoring, carpentry, welding, and cosmetology.
The government has promised to provide necessary tools, stipends, and capacity-building support for both trainees and trainers.
Amid the optimism, master craftswoman, Madam Akosua Mensah, who has trained apprentices in tailoring for over 15 years in Sekondi, shared the daily struggles trainers face.
“We do our best, but resources are scarce. Some days, we don’t have enough sewing machines. And when trainees drop out, it throws everything off balance”.
She expressed hope that the NAP will truly support grassroots trainers like herself, who directly mentor the youth.
“Without equipping us, it’s hard to deliver the results everyone is hoping for.”
