The National Apprenticeship Programme has begun distributing start-up kits and incentives to beneficiaries as part of efforts to equip young artisans with the tools needed to improve their skills and livelihoods.

Speaking at a distribution exercise, the Regional Coordinator of the National Apprenticeship Programme, Mr. Ebenezer Abeiku Essien, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting artisans in line with the country’s 'Resetting Agenda'.

He explained that the programme is designed not only to provide skills training but also to reduce barriers that often prevent apprentices from fully participating.

According to him, allowances for daily feeding have been introduced to curb absenteeism and address financial challenges that apprentices and their parents may face during the training period.

As part of a pilot phase to ensure sustainability and encourage youth participation, start-up kits were distributed to apprentices in trades such as dressmaking, hairdressing, and cosmetology.

Districts that benefited from the exercise include Gomoa West, Abura-Asebu-Kwamankese, Ajumako-Enyan-Essiam, and Asikuma Odoben Brakwa.

In a related development, the District Chief Executive for Asikuma Odoben Brakwa, Mr. Olivia Bentsil, pledged her administration’s full support for apprenticeship and skills training programmes aimed at empowering the youth to earn sustainable livelihoods.

She advised the apprentices to show maximum respect to their masters and trainers, noting that discipline and commitment are essential to achieving success under the programme.