By Jerry Azanduna
Techiman, (Bono East) Jan 09, GNA- The National Apprenticeship Programme (NAP) is training 550 apprentices and 660 master craftsmen in various trades, including automobile engineering, carpentry, fashion designing, and masonry in the Bono East Region.
NAP is part of the government’s efforts to promote economic growth and reduce unemployment amount the youth.
Speaking at the new year message in Techiman, Bono East Regional Minister, Francis Owusu Antwi, observed that the government’s was committed to developing the people and empowering them economically.
“The NAP is designed to equip our youth with the necessary skills to create jobs and improve their livelihoods,” saying government has launched several initiatives aimed at empowering the youth and promoting economic growth in the Region.
He said the programme is expected to benefit not only the apprentices but also the master craftsmen, who will enable them to enhance their skills and contribute to the development of the region.
Mr. Antwi highlighted that the programme covers various trades, including automobile engineering, carpentry, fashion designing and masonry
He mentioned that aside NAP, the government has also initiated the Feed Ghana and Akuko Nkitinkitin programmes to create jobs and boost food production which government has already deployed feed and medication for day-old chicks.
He urged Senior High Schools (SHS) and other institutions to participate in the Feed Ghana programme. “We want to make the Bono East Region a food basket, and we need the support of all stakeholders to achieve this goal,” he said.
Mr. Antwi invited investors and farming-oriented individuals to explore opportunities in the sector and the regions Agriculture prospect mentioning that “Food is a strong source of livelihood, and we need to produce it in large quantities”
He therefore asked farming-oriented persons to enter into farming for their support,” he said.
The Regional Minister noted that government alone cannot achieve such great goals and urged stakeholders, including investors, to support the initiatives.
He called for unity in the region to cultivate productivity and urged all to work together to correct past mistakes to become more fruitful this year.
“The ultimate tool for productivity is unity, and we must join hands to achieve our goals,” said Mr . Antwi.
He expressed optimism that with the support of all stakeholders, the initiatives would yield positive results and contribute to the development of the region.
GNA
Edited by Regina Benneh /Kenneth Odeng Adade