The Volta Region has officially inaugurated the National Apprenticeship Programme (NAP) with a colourful matriculation and induction ceremony at the Jubilee Park in Ho, marking a new phase in skills development and youth empowerment.

The event, held on Saturday, brought together a cohort of apprentices, master craft persons, government officials, and community stakeholders.

It was graced by Mr. James Gunu, the Volta Regional Minister and Mr. Osman Abdulai Ayariga, the Chief Executive Officer of the National Youth Authority (NYA).

Mr. Gunu, in his keynote address, described the programme as a pivotal step in addressing youth unemployment and promoting sustainable livelihoods. He noted that the initiative forms part of government’s flagship policies to build a stronger human resource base for national development.

“This programme is not just about training, but about reshaping the economic trajectory of our region. It is about creating opportunities for young people to turn their potential into prosperity,” Mr. Gunu said.

He reminded participants that the NAP is backed by a GH¢300 million allocation in the 2025 national budget, reflecting government’s strong commitment to equipping the youth with employable skills and reducing dependency.

Mr. Osman Ayariga, CEO of the NYA, commended the Volta Region for embracing the initiative with enthusiasm. He said the programme represented one of the boldest expressions of the Authority’s mission to provide Ghanaian youth with the platform and resources to thrive.

“The National Apprenticeship Programme is a bridge between raw talent and employable skills, between dreams and livelihoods, between potential and prosperity,” he said.

He added that the Volta Region’s long-standing heritage of resilience and industry makes it an ideal place to pioneer the programme. He praised the youth of the region for being disciplined, hardworking, and resourceful.

For the pilot phase in the Volta Region, a total of 2,060 apprentices have been enrolled. They will be trained under the guidance of 412 Master Craft Persons across different trades and vocations.

The beneficiaries will receive free, high-quality, competency-based training designed to match industry standards. In addition, they will be supported with monthly stipends and essential start-up equipment upon successful completion of the programme.

Officials explained that the design of the NAP ensures that apprentices graduate with both technical know-how and entrepreneurial skills, enabling them to create jobs for themselves and others.

The ceremony featured the administration of a matriculation pledge, where the apprentices committed to diligence and discipline throughout their training.

There was also a symbolic presentation of identification cards and training materials to selected apprentices, representing the official start of the programme in the region.

The launch of the National Apprenticeship Programme in the Volta Region signals the government’s intent to scale up technical and vocational education nationwide, with the goal of reducing unemployment and building a skilled workforce for the future.