National Apprenticeship Program Launches in Upper West Region to Equip Youth with Skills

Charles Lwanga Puozuing - Upper West Regional Minister

The Upper West Regional Minister, Charles Lwanga Puozuing, has emphasized the government’s commitment to empowering young people through the National Apprenticeship Program. Speaking during the matriculation ceremony over the weekend in Wa, Hon. Puozuing highlighted that the initiative is designed to nurture skills, build hope, and provide opportunities for youth to gain employable trades.

The program, which involves a 16-week intensive training, aims to equip selected youths with practical skills that can lead to employment, entrepreneurship, and broader contributions to national development. The Regional Minister stated that this initiative aligns with the government’s broader goal of reducing youth unemployment and fostering socio-economic growth.

Representing the Youth Ministry, Madam Vida Andi, the Upper West Regional Director for the National Youth Authority, announced that a total of 10,000 youths across Ghana’s 16 regions have been enrolled in the apprenticeship scheme. She reaffirmed the government’s dedication to youth development through such targeted skills acquisition programs.

Applauding the initiative, Mr. Albert Azaasuma, speaking on behalf of the apprentices, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to learn a trade that could improve their livelihoods. He urged fellow apprentices to take full advantage of the training and commit to mastering their skills.

The Regional Coordinator of the National Apprenticeship Program in Upper West also commended both the apprentices and their mentors, emphasizing the importance of a fair and comprehensive training process throughout the 16-month program duration.

This initiative is expected to play a crucial role in enabling young Ghanaians to acquire sustainable skills, ultimately fostering economic resilience and social stability in the region.