C/R: 42 Female Beneficiaries Pregnant, Drop Out of National Apprenticeship Program – Coordinator
The Central Regional Coordinator for the National Apprenticeship Programme has disclosed that 42 female beneficiaries in the Central Region are pregnant and have dropped out within nine months of the programme’s launch – a development he described as deeply concerning.
Speaking to beneficiaries during a distribution event in the Upper Denkyira West District, Central Regional Coordinator Ebenezer Abeiku Essien revealed that the 42 women became pregnant and discontinued the programme shortly after it started.
He urged participants to treat the initiative seriously, noting that the government is bearing all costs, including monthly allowances.
The coordinator emphasized that the programme, a key NDC campaign promise aimed at tackling youth unemployment, is here to stay.
So far, 10,000 people have benefited from the Central Region.
He warned “madams” (trainers) against assigning unrelated tasks, stressing that beneficiaries should focus solely on learning their trades.
Mr. Essien described this as the pilot phase, with the government planning to expand intake to 100,000 youths nationwide this year.
“The government has Ghanaian youths at heart,” he added, advising beneficiaries to avoid behaviours that lead to dropout.
In addition, Upper Denkyira West District Chief Executive, Hon. Isaac Nsiah pledged the assembly’s support, including intensive monitoring,to ensure beneficiaries are well treated.
He urged trainers to care for apprentices properly and teach them effectively without hindrance.
Hon. Nsiah also encouraged district youths to join en masse for the benefit of their families,the assembly, and Ghana.
Story by Yaw Boagyan