The Youth Employment Agency (YEA) has successfully graduated over 10,000 trainees from its Skills Training Programme, urging the government to integrate these newly skilled professionals into key national initiatives like Agenda 111.

The graduation ceremony, held at Valley View University in Techiman, Bono East Region, marked a significant milestone in empowering Ghana’s youth for self-employment and national development.

YEA’s Chief Executive Officer, Kofi Agyepong, lauded the achievements of the first cohort of 20,000 trainees, who have undergone six months of intensive training in trades such as carpentry, beauty care, auto works, welding, and electrical work.

These programs aim to provide practical skills that support both individual growth and the nation’s economic development.

“This is not just a day of celebration but a day of history in the making,” Agyepong declared.

“We are witnessing the passing out of 10,006 talented young men and women who are now ready to contribute to our nation’s growth.”

Call for Government Action

Addressing Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia, who was in attendance, Agyepong appealed for immediate government action to employ these newly trained artisans in ongoing and future public projects, particularly Agenda 111.

This government initiative aims to build hospitals across all districts in Ghana.

“These skilled professionals are ready to contribute to the nation’s growth,” he stated.

“We plead with the government to immediately rope in these artisans onto all Agenda 111 projects. Let these young men and women be part of the hands that build the hospitals our districts need.”

Strategic Shift in Youth Employment

The YEA’s Skills Training Programme, introduced by Agyepong after taking office in October 2022, represents a shift from traditional short-term employment modules to more sustainable, long-term skill-building.

This strategic redirection is designed to create a more resilient workforce equipped to meet the demands of the Ghanaian economy.

Agyepong shared the inspiring success stories of trainees like Rose Asante and Alidu Adamu, who overcame significant personal challenges to gain valuable skills through the program. “Today, we celebrate Rose and Alidu, who are no longer defined by their circumstances but by their potential,” he said, urging the graduates to uphold integrity and trust as they enter the workforce.

Supporting Graduates and Expanding Opportunities

To facilitate a smooth transition into the job market, YEA provided each graduate with a starter pack containing essential tools to begin their businesses.

Additionally, Agyepong announced the launch of the GHArtisan App, a digital platform that connects Ghanaians with certified artisans, making it easier to hire skilled workers across the country.

As the government moves forward with transformative projects like Agenda 111, integrating these newly trained artisans is viewed as a critical step toward reducing unemployment and fostering economic growth.

“By hiring these young stars, you’re not just getting top-notch work; you’re also playing your part in reducing unemployment and lifting up our community,” Agyepong noted.

A New Chapter for Ghana’s Youth

The graduation event represents a new chapter for the thousands of YEA graduates who are now poised to use their skills to transform their lives and contribute meaningfully to Ghana’s development.

“The time is now to make your families, the government, and yourselves proud,” Agyepong encouraged the graduates.

The call for their integration into national projects is not just about employment but also about leveraging the potential of the youth to build a more prosperous Ghana.