By Kingsley Mamore, GNA
Dambai (O/R), April 10, GNA-Mr John Kwadwo Gyapong, the Oti Regional Minister has called on beneficiaries of the National Apprenticeship Programme (NAP) to take full advantage of the initiative and contribute meaningfully to Ghana’s ambition of becoming an industrial hub.
He made the appeal while supervising the distribution of training kits to apprentices across the region, emphasising the importance of commitment and discipline throughout the training period.
Speaking in an interview with the Ghana News Agency (GNA), the Minister noted that the NAP was a key component of President John Dramani Mahama’s broader strategy to tackle youth unemployment by equipping young people with practical and employable skills.
According to him, the first phase of the programme was expected to benefit over 100,000 young Ghanaians nationwide, with a significant number drawn from the Oti Region.
Mr Gyapong revealed that the government had absorbed the agreement fees between apprentices and their master craft persons, easing the financial burden on beneficiaries and their families.
He disclosed that each trainee would receive a monthly stipend of GH¢300 to support their basic needs during the training period.
He urged participants to remain focused and committed, stressing that the programme offered a vital opportunity for those who may not have access to senior high school or tertiary education.
The Minister also assured the public that strict monitoring and supervision mechanisms would be put in place to ensure that all start-up kits distributed under the programme were used for their intended purposes.
He reiterated government’s commitment to empowering the youth through skills development as a pathway to sustainable economic growth and industrial transformation.
GNA
Edited by Maxwell Awumah/Linda Asante Agyei