The Chief Executive Officer of the National Youth Authority (NYA), Osuman Ayariga, has cautioned beneficiaries of the National Apprenticeship Programme in Cape Coast against selling the tools distributed to them, warning that offenders will be arrested.
The caution was issued during the presentation of working tools to master craftsmen and apprentices at the Cape Coast Metropolitan Assembly (CCMA) as part of the government’s skills development initiative launched by President John Dramani Mahama.
Addressing the gathering, Mr. Ayariga stressed that the equipment provided under the programme is strictly for training and business start-up purposes and remains government property.
“These tools are not for sale. If you are caught selling them or failing to use them for the intended purpose, it is a criminal offence and you will be arrested,” he warned.
He explained that the programme is designed to equip young people with employable skills while supporting them with start-up kits upon completion of their training to enable them establish their own businesses. According to him, 10,000 apprentices have already been enrolled nationwide, with plans to scale up the number to 100,000 this year.
Mr. Ayariga further disclosed that discussions are ongoing with various Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies to create youth industrial hubs where beneficiaries who lack capital to rent shops can access shared workspaces.
The Metropolitan Chief Executive for Cape Coast, Hon. George Justice Arthur, reinforced the warning, stating that selling the tools amounts to selling government property, which is an offence.
He announced that a monitoring committee will be constituted to inspect and ensure that the tools are being used appropriately by both masters and apprentices.
Mr. Arthur also emphasized his commitment to ensuring the metropolis fully benefits from government flagship initiatives.
The Member of Parliament for Cape Coast North, Hon. Dr. Kwamina Minta Nyarku, urged recipients to make effective use of the opportunity to improve their livelihoods and contribute to reducing unemployment in the metropolis.
Beneficiaries, including apprentices in dressmaking and hairdressing, expressed appreciation for the support and pledged to utilize the tools responsibly.
The National Apprenticeship Programme forms part of government’s broader efforts to promote vocational training and youth entrepreneurship across the country.
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Source: Alhaji Ibrahim / ATLFMNEWS
