Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia has pledged to make youth empowerment a central priority if elected as President, committing to substantial investments in the Youth Employment Agency (YEA).
He emphasized his dedication to addressing youth unemployment by significantly enhancing the agency’s resources.
Speaking at a graduation ceremony for 10,000 YEA trainees in the Bono Region on Tuesday, August 27, 2024, Dr. Bawumia, the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) presidential candidate, stated, “God willing, when I become president, I will prioritize massive investments in the YEA. This will enable the agency to expand its programs and create more opportunities for young people to contribute to the public sector.”
The ceremony, which saw the distribution of starter packs to graduates, marks a significant step in equipping Ghanaian youth with the skills needed to reduce unemployment and stimulate economic growth.
These starter packs are intended to help the graduates establish their own businesses and contribute to the economy.
Launch of GHartisan App
As an added incentive for the trainees, Dr. Bawumia announced the upcoming launch of the GHartisan app, an innovative online platform designed to connect trained artisans with customers nationwide.
The app will list the profiles of all YEA-trained artisans, facilitating easier access to job opportunities.
“Next month, the YEA will launch the GHartisan app. I eagerly anticipate its operation, as I believe it will greatly benefit all of you,” Dr. Bawumia said.
Investment in Vocational and Technical Education
Highlighting the government’s commitment to education, Dr. Bawumia also revealed that over the past seven years, more than GHC 6 billion has been invested in vocational and technical training, a key component of the government’s broader strategy to equip the youth with entrepreneurial skills.
“In addition to Free SHS, we have made vocational and technical education free, which is crucial for entrepreneurial training. Over the last seven years, we have invested GHC 6 billion in vocational and technical education,” he noted.
The YEA plans to continue its efforts by training another 10,000 youth in various trades in the coming months, further expanding its impact on youth employment across the country.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
