Over 500,000 young Ghanaians are expected to benefit from free technical and vocational training over the next five years under the newly launched National Apprenticeship Programme.

The programme, launched by President John Mahama at the University for Development Studies in Tamale, is part of a broader effort to tackle youth unemployment by providing hands-on skills training and startup support.

President Mahama announced that all trainees will receive monthly allowances during their training and startup capital upon completion to help them begin their own businesses.

“Each apprentice will receive a stipend, an allowance for transport. At the end of the programme, you will be given a certificate that shows you are professionally qualified in the trade you went to learn. You can use that certificate if you want to find a job or go into self-employment,” he stated.

The National Apprenticeship Programme is designed to be inclusive. President Mahama said 45 percent of the trainees will be women, with at least five percent reserved for persons with disabilities. Special arrangements will also be made for other vulnerable groups.

“The initiative aims to provide young people with hands-on training by pairing them with experienced master craftsmen and women across various strains. These include tailoring, welding, hairdressing, carpentry, auto mechanics, and more," the President said.

Graduates of the programme will receive tools, equipment, and other support to help them transition into employment or entrepreneurship.

To ensure sustainability, President Mahama also revealed that 300 million Ghana Cedis in full funding has been allocated in the 2025 budget stating that this is a sustainable long-term project.