More than 52,000 unemployed young people in Ghana’s Central Region are set to benefit from a government-initiated Free Apprenticeship programme designed to tackle youth unemployment.

The initiative, which was rolled out as part of President John Dramani Mahama’s 2024 campaign pledges, will provide training in vocational fields such as tailoring, hairdressing, carpentry, auto mechanics, and other trades.

Speaking at the launch, the Deputy Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Youth Employment Agency (YEA), Mr Adongo Atule Jacob, urged participants to take the opportunity seriously, stressing that the government is removing financial barriers that often prevent young people from acquiring skills.

“The government is providing free tools, equipment, and feeding to support all apprentices.

This programme is designed to give young people not just skills but the resources to succeed,” he said.

The Central Regional Coordinator of the programme, Mr Emmanuel Abeiku Essien, confirmed that all 23 districts in the region are taking part.

He disclosed that 1,150 trainees have been selected for the first batch, supported by 250 trainers chosen from over 6,000 applications.

He further explained that the programme will be continuous, with fresh enrollment each year, to create a sustainable pathway to employment for thousands of young people.

Both officials appealed to beneficiaries to commit fully to the training, emphasising that their dedication would be key to reducing unemployment in the country.