CEO of the National Youth Authority (NYA), Osman Ayariga, has fulfilled a promise to support Solomon Akugru, a survivor of the June 3, 2015, Circle disaster, by enrolling him in the National Apprenticeship Programme.

This follows a public appeal by blogger Kobby Kyei, who highlighted Akugru’s struggles in a May 30, 2025, post as part of his Touching Lives initiative.

Akugru, who suffered severe facial injuries during the tragic flood and fire, had been abandoned by his family and forced to beg on the streets to survive. His story captured national attention and moved Mr. Ayariga to act.

In response, the NYA boss personally invited Akugru to the Authority’s Head Office, where he listened to his story and helped him fill out forms to begin training as a tile layer.

The gesture was praised as an act of compassion and leadership beyond official duty.

Kobby Kyei, in a Facebook post, thanked Ayariga for his genuine support.

“Your personal involvement in Solomon’s enrollment speaks volumes. By equipping him with tile-laying skills, you are helping him rebuild his future with dignity,” he wrote.

Ayariga, in turn, lauded Kobby Kyei for his advocacy and reaffirmed NYA’s commitment to youth development, especially for those from marginalised communities.

He also welcomed future collaborations aimed at empowering young Ghanaians.

The initiative has inspired many, with Akugru’s journey becoming a powerful example of how leadership, empathy, and civic engagement can restore hope and transform lives.