President John Mahama has officially launched the National Apprenticeship Program, a flagship initiative aimed at equipping Ghana’s youth with marketable vocational skills. The program is set to begin accepting applications in May 2025.
The launch event was held at the auditorium of the University for Development Studies in Tamale and marks a key milestone in the government’s ongoing efforts to address unemployment and promote industrialization.
In his address to a gathering of students, government officials, and industry stakeholders, President Mahama announced that the program would be coordinated by the Ministry of Youth Development and Empowerment, in collaboration with other relevant government agencies and private sector partners. He revealed that a budgetary allocation of GHS 300 million has been earmarked for the initiative in the 2025 national budget.
“This program aims to provide over 500,000 young people with high-quality vocational training to reduce unemployment, improve livelihoods, and spur the creation of over 25,000 new small businesses,” the President stated.
He emphasized that the training would target key sectors of the economy, including agriculture, agro-processing, and various skilled trades. Highlighting some of the sectors covered, he said, “The National Apprenticeship Program will deliver comprehensive training in agriculture-related areas such as fish farming, poultry keeping, locally referred to as nkoko nketenkete, beekeeping, and food preservation. For those interested in craftsmanship, modules will be offered in carpentry, plumbing, and electrical work, allowing trainees to become fully certified technicians.”
President Mahama also outlined a series of incentives designed to support and encourage participation. These include monthly stipends, transport allowances, and starter toolkits tailored to each trade.
“Each apprentice will receive a stipend and transport support,” he explained. “You’ll also be given the tools needed to start your profession. For instance, seamstresses will receive sewing kits including scissors, measuring tapes, and needles. Upon completion, each participant will receive a professional certificate, which can be used to gain employment or start a business.”
The President stressed the program’s inclusive design, aiming to leave no one behind. “At least 45% of the apprentices will be women or girls, and a minimum of 5% will be persons with disabilities. Special attention will be given to marginalized and vulnerable communities across the country.”
Phase one of the National Apprenticeship Program will launch in May 2025, enrolling 10,000 apprentices from every district in Ghana. By 2026, the government plans to scale up the program to train 100,000 young people annually.
Application forms will be available at all Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies, as well as online via the National Youth Authority portal starting in May.
