goldcoastnewsline@gmail.com
The government has launched the Ghana Jobs and Skills Apprenticeship Programme to help in combating Ghana’s pressing youth unemployment crisis.
This transformative initiative is designed to equip young people with the skills and experience necessary to succeed in a modern job market, making it a cornerstone in Ghana’s strategy to foster economic growth and youth empowerment.
At the unveiling ceremony in Sunyani, Dr. Fred Kyei Asamoah, Director General of the Commission for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (CTVET), said it was a comprehensive overhaul of Ghana’s vocational training system.
“With a focus on integrating modern apprenticeship models and expanding the voucher system, the initiative aims to make technical and vocational education more relevant, appealing and accessible for young people,” he said .
The government’s approach, he indicated, involved not only skill acquisition but also enhancing employment opportunities through practical, hands-on experience and industry linkages.
“Sunyani Technical University and Cape Coast Technical University stand out as leading examples of the programme’s impact. These institutions have successfully implemented robust apprenticeship systems, providing students with direct exposure to industry practices, workplace skills, and potential employment connections,” he added.
He noted that by offering hands-on experience within these structured settings, the government aimed to bridge the gap between education and employment, helping students transition smoothly into the workforce.
He lamented that despite these advancements, the Ghana Jobs and Skills Apprenticeship Programme had encountered several obstacles, particularly regarding outdated equipment and limited partnerships with industries.
These challenges, he noted, had often restricted the effectiveness of apprenticeship programmes, with some institutions struggling to meet modern industry standards.
He stated that government had committed to significant investments to upgrade training facilities, modernize educational resources, and foster stronger industry connections.
“To strengthen these collaborations, Sector Skills Bodies (SSBs) are being established to serve as conduits for best practices, industry standards, and employment opportunities. The SSBs will work closely with institutions to align training programs with the evolving needs of the market, ensuring students gain relevant and in-demand skills,” he added.
Dr. Asamoah further expressed optimism about the programme’s development. “We’ve seen commendable dedication and progress from institutions like Sunyani Technical University and Cape Coast Technical University,” he noted.
He added that the government was actively working to eliminate barriers hindering the success of apprenticeship models, a commitment underscored by ongoing facility upgrades and strategic partnerships.
He revealed that the government was implementing several targeted strategies, including formalizing Workplace Experience Learning (WEL) opportunities, establishing structured apprenticeship pathways, and encouraging knowledge-sharing across institutions.
“By doing so, the programme is expected to create a sustainable and mutually beneficial relationship between educational institutions and industries, allowing for continuous improvement and adaptation to new market demands,” he added.
