The Chief Executive Officer of the National Youth Authority (NYA), Osman Abdulai Ayariga, has presented tools and equipment to the Member of Parliament for Ketu North, Edem Agbana, in support of the constituency’s Skills and Apprenticeship Programme, which is benefiting 271 young trainees.
The presentation forms part of efforts to strengthen youth employment and skills development within the Ketu North Constituency. The initiative, spearheaded by the MP, is designed to provide practical training and direct apprenticeship opportunities to young men and women across the area.
Speaking at the ceremony, Osman Ayariga urged beneficiaries to take their training seriously, emphasizing the value of the opportunity they have received.
“Many young people would have wished for the opportunity to learn and receive the support you are enjoying today. If you have been selected, you must take your work seriously. Money is being paid on your behalf for you to learn a trade. You must appreciate the efforts of your Member of Parliament and make good use of this chance,” he told the trainees.
Mr. Osman Ayariga noted that youth unemployment was a major concern raised during the 2024 election campaign season. He explained that following the electoral victory of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), President John Dramani Mahama initiated the National Apprenticeship Programme to address rising unemployment among young people.
According to him, the Ketu North Skills Programme aligns closely with the national vision.
“The direction the MP is taking is the same direction President John Mahama has set for the country — reducing unemployment through practical skills training. That is why the National Youth Authority will continue to support him to achieve this goal,” Osman Ayariga stated.
The event was chaired by the Volta Regional Director of the National Apprenticeship Programme, Johnson Samlafo, and attended by party officials, community leaders, and beneficiaries.
In a statement following the presentation, MP Edem Agbana reaffirmed his commitment to economically empowering the youth of Ketu North.
“As part of our strategy to economically empower Ketu North and expand real opportunities for young people, we have enrolled over 271 young men and women into direct apprenticeship. This is a clear investment in skills, productivity, and self-reliance,” he said.
The MP revealed that every beneficiary under the programme has had their apprenticeship fees fully paid. In addition, each trainee has received the necessary tools and equipment, a cash token to support their training, and a full commitment that their graduation fees will also be covered.
“We are taking responsibility and removing the financial barriers that hold our young people back. We are equipping them with skills that translate into income, independence, and job creation. This is leadership that delivers opportunity and builds capacity,” Agbana added.
The initiative is expected to significantly reduce unemployment in the constituency by equipping beneficiaries with employable skills and the tools required to start their own businesses upon completion of their training.
With strong collaboration between the National Youth Authority and the Office of the Member of Parliament, stakeholders believe the programme will serve as a model for youth empowerment and sustainable development in the Volta Region and beyond.
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