The Minister for Youth Development and Empowerment, George Opare Addo, has lauded the National Apprenticeship Programme (NAP) as a bold and practical demonstration of President John Mahama’s unwavering commitment to tackling unemployment in Ghana.

Speaking at the Government Accountability Series held at the Jubilee House on Monday, August 4, the Minister said the initiative is a cornerstone of the government’s agenda to empower young people with employable skills.

According to Mr Opare Addo, NAP is not just a job creation scheme but a long-term investment in Ghana’s human capital.

“The President’s vision is clear, we are not merely offering temporary solutions. We are building the capacity of young people to take charge of their future,” he stated.

He added that by providing structured, hands-on training in various trades, the programme offers a viable pathway to self-employment and economic independence for thousands of young Ghanaians.

The Minister revealed that the first phase of the programme has already seen thousands of apprentices enrolled across all regions, with special emphasis on tailoring, hairdressing, welding, carpentry, and ICT-related skills.

“What sets NAP apart is its focus on relevance and quality. Every apprentice is linked to a certified master craftsman or trainer, and we are monitoring the outcomes closely,” Mr Opare Addo explained.

He further called on traditional authorities, local assemblies, and private sector actors to support the initiative. “We must all rally behind this vision,” he said.

“NAP is a national programme, and its success depends on shared responsibility. With President Mahama at the helm, we are confident that youth unemployment will soon become a thing of the past.”