The Volta Region has officially inaugurated the National Apprenticeship Programme (NAP) with a matriculation and induction ceremony held at the Jubilee Park in Ho today.

The event, attended by a new cohort of apprentices and master craft persons, was graced by the Volta Regional Minister, Hon. James Gunu, and the Chief Executive Officer of the National Youth Authority (NYA), Hon. Osman Abdulai Ayariga.

In his keynote address, Hon. Gunu described the programme as a “pivotal moment” for the youth and the economic trajectory of the region. He emphasized that the NAP, a flagship initiative of President John Mahama’s administration, is a direct response to youth unemployment and is backed by a GH¢300 million allocation in the 2025 national budget.

Hon. Osman Ayariga, in his remarks, stated that the National Apprenticeship Programme is one of the “boldest expressions” of the NYA’s mission to provide Ghanaian youth with the platform and resources to thrive.

“The National Apprenticeship program is a bridge between raw talents and employable skills, between dreams and livelihoods, between potential and prosperity,” he said. He added that the programme connects perfectly with the Volta Region’s “heritage of resilience and industry,” praising its youth for being resourceful and disciplined.

For the pilot phase in the Volta Region, 2,060 apprentices have been enrolled and will be trained by 412 Master Craft Persons. The beneficiaries will receive free, high-quality, competency-based training, monthly stipends, and essential start-up equipment upon completion.

The ceremony featured the administration of a matriculation pledge and the symbolic presentation of identification cards and training materials to the apprentices.