Akufo-Addo to introduce work-and-school for artisans in Suame

An Akufo-Addo-led government will introduce the Dual System of formal education and apprenticeship to help upgrade the skills of local engineers at the Suame Magazine, the 2016 presidential candidate of the New Patriotic Party has said.

The Suame Magazine is recognised as the largest artisanal engineering cluster in sub-Saharan Africa, and has a working population of over 200,000 and approximately 12,000 workshops, mainly engaged in engineering works, metal works, and repairs of vehicles and equipment.

Addressing the thousands of artisans in Suame on Thursday July 14 as part of his tour of the Ashanti Region, the NPP flagbearer said he would introduce the system, a popular apprenticeship scheme in Germany, into the country to help the artisans if elected into power.

“[In Germany], they have a system called the Dual System, which combines apprenticeship and schooling. Artisans at Magazine, through the upgrading of the National Vocational Training Institute, will have the opportunity to upgrade their knowledge and skills, whilst working at the same time,” he said.

Nana Akufo-Addo noted that artisans would also benefit from a small loan scheme, which will help them procure equipment for start-up shops across the country.

“I am not outlining these policies because I want votes. No! These policies are vital if we are to progress as a nation, create jobs for our youth, and also move Ghana onto the path of prosperity,” he added.