President John Dramani Mahama has officially launched the National Apprenticeship Programme (NAP), a flagship initiative aimed at equipping 10,000 young Ghanaians with employable skills across all 261 districts in its first phase.
The launch took place on April 30, 2025, at the University for Development Studies (UDS) auditorium in Tamale.
“This programme is not just about training it’s about restoring hope, creating dignity, and building livelihoods,” President Mahama told the gathering, emphasizing the government’s commitment to tackling youth unemployment through practical, inclusive interventions.
The NAP offers structured training modules lasting between 2 to 18 months across multiple trades and crafts, targeting both literate and non-literate youth.
To ensure inclusiveness, instruction will be available in local languages.
Participants will receive monthly stipends during their training. Upon graduation, they will also be supported with start-up capital and equipment to establish their own businesses a critical step toward long-term self-reliance.
The government has committed GH¢300 million from the 2025 national budget to fund the programme, covering training costs, stipends, and start-up support.
To ensure broad participation, 45% of training slots are reserved for women, with an additional 5% dedicated to persons with disabilities.
Interested applicants can apply online through the National Youth Authority portal or visit their local Metropolitan, Municipal, or District Assembly offices.
“This programme is for every young Ghanaian with a dream and the will to learn,” President Mahama said. “Whether you have formal education or not, there is a place for you.”
NAP is anchored in the NDC’s 2024 manifesto pledge to scale up technical and vocational training nationwide.
Over the next five years, the programme aims to reach over 500,000 young people. The government projects that at least 60% of graduates will either gain employment or start their own businesses, potentially increasing their incomes by up to 40%.
To strengthen training delivery, regional Centres of Excellence will be established to provide hands-on, simulated work environments for practical learning.
The programme forms part of a broader push by the Mahama administration to reduce unemployment and promote entrepreneurship.
Earlier in the week, the President also launched the Adwumawura programme, designed to create at least 10,000 jobs annually for the youth and other job seekers.
How to Apply
Prospective applicants can visit www.nya.gov.gh or contact their nearest district assembly for more information and assistance with the application process.
By: J.W Quarm
