Induction and Matriculation Ceremony Held for Apprentices and Master Craft Persons in Accra

The Accra Metropolitan Assembly has hosted the induction and matriculation ceremony for the first cohort of apprentices and master craft persons under the National Apprenticeship Program (NAP). The event marked the official welcome of shortlisted apprentices into the program, which aims to equip young Ghanaians with employable and entrepreneurial skills.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Greater Accra Regional Minister, Hon. Linda Ocloo, emphasized that the National Apprenticeship Program reflects the government’s strong commitment to sustainable employment through human capital development. She noted that the initiative aligns with the President’s “Resetting Agenda,” which focuses on job creation, youth empowerment, and building a resilient economy.

The National Coordinator of the National Apprenticeship Program, Mr. Nicodemus Dery, urged the apprentices to remain disciplined, focused, and fully committed to their training. He cautioned against abandoning the program midway, stressing the importance of seeing it through to completion.

Also speaking at the event, the Chief Executive Officer of the National Youth Authority (NYA), Osman Ayariga Esq., highlighted the Authority’s dedication to the welfare and empowerment of Ghana’s youth. “We are proud to be at the heart of this bold initiative—the National Apprenticeship Program—designed to provide structured, competency-based training for young men and women across the country,” he said. He further stated that through both the NAP and the National Youth Policy Implementation Plan, the NYA is laying a strong foundation for a generation of skilled, innovative, and confident young people who will shape Ghana’s future.

The Minister for Youth Development and Empowerment, Hon. George Opare Addo, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fully covering the cost for all NAP beneficiaries. He encouraged master craft persons to mentor and support their apprentices, helping them avoid negative influences such as drug abuse. He stressed that the program would be closely monitored to ensure it delivers meaningful outcomes for national development. He also cautioned master craft persons not to use apprentices as laborers, but rather to impart knowledge and provide proper training for the benefit of the country.

The matriculation and induction ceremony brought together over 500 selected beneficiaries from across the Greater Accra Region.