President John Dramani Mahama has launched the National Apprenticeship Programme in Tamale with a bold pledge to create over 500,000 jobs through skills training and empowerment of Ghana’s youth.
Speaking at the official launch, President Mahama stressed that the initiative is aimed at addressing the alarming levels of youth unemployment by equipping young people with employable skills. The programme will pair apprentices with experienced master craftsmen and women across a variety of trades including tailoring, welding, hairdressing, carpentry, and auto mechanics.
“The challenge we face today is a growing youth population with limited skills,” the President noted. “Ghana is blessed with a vibrant and youthful population, yet too many of our young citizens find themselves battling unemployment.”
President Mahama highlighted the government’s commitment to the programme, announcing that GH¢300 million has been earmarked in the 2025 national budget to fully fund its rollout.
“This is not one of those initiatives government will rush to start without support,” he said. “The National Apprenticeship Programme is designed to be inclusive, with at least 45 percent of beneficiaries being women, 5 percent persons with disabilities, and special attention to marginalized and less privileged communities.”
He called on the youth to take full advantage of the opportunity to gain hands-on skills and improve their economic prospects.
Minister for Youth Development and Empowerment, George Opare Addo, also addressed the gathering, noting that the programme is part of a broader national agenda to reduce unemployment and build a skilled workforce.
“Each apprentice will receive stipends for transportation, starter kits, and a certificate upon completion,” he announced, adding that the initiative will ensure equity and fairness in its implementation.
The National Apprenticeship Programme is expected to be rolled out nationwide in phases starting later this year.
