Hundreds of young artisans in the Ekumfi Constituency have received heavy-duty start-up equipment under the National Apprenticeship Programme (NAP) to help them start their own businesses.
The beneficiaries, who recently completed training in fashion, catering, carpentry, electrical and auto-mechanics, received industrial sewing machines, baking equipment, carpentry machinery and modern diagnostic tools.
The distribution was led by the Member of Parliament for Ekumfi, Dr. Othniel Ekow Kwainoe, in collaboration with the Youth Employment Agency (YEA).
Speaking in an interview, Dr. Kwainoe said the initiative is part of President John Dramani Mahama’s strategy to decentralize job creation and tackle youth unemployment.
“We are empowering our young people to be the masters of their own destiny,” he said. “By investing in these specific skills, we are ensuring that the wealth created by their labor remains within our constituency.”
He urged the beneficiaries to maintain the equipment and uphold professional integrity, describing the tools as a capital investment, not just a gift.
Meanwhile, YEA District Director for Ekumfi, Mr. Gideon Ackwah, disclosed that nearly 200 graduates benefited from the programme. He said more support would be rolled out in line with government’s commitment to expand the NAP.
The DCE for Ekumfi also cautioned masters and madams against seizing equipment from apprentices and urged beneficiaries to take good care of the items to attract more support.
Some beneficiaries expressed gratitude to President Mahama and the MP, saying the support will make them financially independent and enable them to contribute to community development.
Source: Douglas Oyiboh Amponsah
