YEA Rolls Out Equipment, Allowances to Enhance Apprenticeship Training in Ashanti Region 

The Youth Employment Authority (YEA) has rolled out essential working equipment alongside monthly allowances to strengthen apprenticeship training for 1,820 masters and apprentices across the Ashanti Region under the National Apprenticeship Programme.

The equipment distributed includes industrial sewing machines, hair dryers, and other trade-specific tools aimed at improving hands-on training in vocational areas such as tailoring, hairdressing, glazing, and electrical works. The intervention is designed to enhance practical skills development while creating better learning conditions for both apprentices and their trainers.

In addition to the tools, the provision of monthly allowances to apprentices and their masters is expected to motivate effective skills transfer, ease financial pressures, and improve overall productivity throughout the training period.

The distribution ceremony, held at Ejisu, attracted government officials, traditional authorities, beneficiaries, and community members, reflecting the importance of skills development as a key driver of youth empowerment and job creation.

Speaking at the event, the Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Youth Employment Authority, Hon. Alhaji Inusa Mahama, said the initiative aligns with President John Dramani Mahama’s vision of creating an enabling environment that equips young Ghanaians with employable, market-relevant skills. He noted that technical and vocational education remains one of the most effective solutions to youth unemployment and economic vulnerability.

According to him, the National Apprenticeship Programme goes beyond training by ensuring that beneficiaries have access to the necessary tools and financial support to practice their trades effectively, thereby improving their prospects for employment or self-employment upon completion.

The Ashanti Regional Minister, Hon. Dr. Frank Amoakohene, emphasized the need to place national interest above partisan politics in the implementation of social intervention programmes. He explained that skills training initiatives play a critical role in preventing youth involvement in social vices by providing them with meaningful economic opportunities and a sense of purpose.

Hon. Dr. Amoakohene encouraged beneficiaries to remain committed and disciplined throughout the training period, stressing that the success of the programme depends largely on their dedication to mastering their chosen trades.

Also addressing the gathering, the Chief of Donaso, Nana Akwasi Agyekum, commended the government for the initiative and urged the apprentices and their masters to take full advantage of the support provided. He noted that skills training is a proven pathway to job creation, self-employment, and long-term economic stability.

The National Apprenticeship Programme remains a central pillar of the government’s youth development strategy, with the Ashanti Region continuing to benefit from targeted interventions aimed at building a skilled, productive, and self-reliant youth population.