The Minister for Youth Development and Empowerment, George Opare Addo, has announced that all beneficiaries of the National Apprenticeship Programme (NAP) will receive monthly stipends while undergoing training.

The initiative, he said, forms part of the government’s commitment to empower young people with employable skills and ease the financial burden on apprentices.

Speaking at the Government Accountability Series at the Jubilee House on Monday, 4 August, Mr Opare Addo emphasised that the stipend is a deliberate effort to encourage participation and reduce dropout rates.

“This is not just about skills training — it’s about giving our young people a fair shot at a better future,” he said.

“By providing a monthly allowance, we’re ensuring that financial hardship does not become a barrier to completing the programme.”

He explained that the stipends will be disbursed directly to apprentices across the country, adding that the initiative also aims to uplift the informal sector.

“The National Apprenticeship Programme has already enrolled thousands, and we are scaling up with proper monitoring and support systems to ensure its success,” he noted.

Mr Opare Addo further called on master trainers and vocational institutions to uphold standards and provide a positive learning environment for the apprentices.

“We are investing in our youth, and we expect the same commitment from our partners in this process,” he added.

The NAP is a flagship intervention under the government's broader youth employment and empowerment agenda.