You are all part of the 24 hours economy – Hon. Phillis Naa Koryoo Okunor

Story by: Paa Khwesi Faith

In the early hours of Friday, 13th February 2026, the National Youth Authority, in collaboration with the Awutu Senya East Municipal Assembly, presented tools, machines, and other items to apprentices and master craftpersons under the youth apprenticeship programme of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

The presentation took place at the Kasoa Overhead (under the bridge). The event was attended by the Member of Parliament for Awutu Senya East, Phyllis Naa Koryoo Okunor; the Municipal Chief Executive for Awutu Senya East, Seth Serwornoo Banini; and the Regional Coordinator of NAP, Hon. Ebenezer Abeiku Essien, among other dignitaries.

Speaking under the programme, Hon. Seth Serwornoo Banini emphasized that the machines are not for the personal use of the madams (bosses) or the apprentices but are strictly for training purposes. He stated that there would be strict supervision and that ghost names would not be tolerated. He stressed that the programme would ensure full accountability and urged beneficiaries to take good care of the machines.

In conclusion, he noted that the NDC government is committed to youth development, focusing not only on classroom education but also on skills training.
In the address of , Hon. Phyllis Naa Koryoo Okunor , she stated that the people of Awutu Senya East are the first beneficiaries of the programme in Ghana, making the municipality the first to receive the machines and other items. She told beneficiaries that they are key to the government’s 24-hour economy agenda and assured them that there would be proper monitoring to address any challenges that may arise.

She explained that the programme is designed to teach the youth how to fish rather than give them fish. She further advised apprentices and their madams not to leave the machines unused. She urged madams and bosses to instill discipline in their apprentices and guide them to become responsible professionals, while encouraging apprentices to remain resilient throughout their training.

Hon. Okunor also assured beneficiaries that the apprenticeship programme would not be a one-day initiative. She emphasized that after completing their training, the government would support them in establishing their own businesses or shops. She further warned madams and bosses against registering ghost names, stressing that offenders would face sanctions.

The board also informed the apprentices that they would receive a monthly allowance of GH₵300 to support their feeding.
Following the speeches, the machines and equipment were officially presented and handed over to the board and the beneficiaries.

Source: Locotvgh