CTVET and NYA, is working to support these young people by improving and standardizing the training process so that their skills can be upgraded.
Therefore, the National Apprenticeship Program has been launched at Ascension Hall in the Eastern Region, bringing together stakeholders from the Commission for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (CTVET) and the National Youth Authority (NYA).
Speaking at the event,Mr.Sompson Damtey Tettey, Director of Accreditation, Assessment and Certification at CTVET, emphasized that training and learning should not be limited to formal schooling.According to him, “education is not only in the classroom; people also learn through hands-on skills such as building, tailoring, and other vocational trades.”
He explained that many young people who are unable to complete formal education pursue informal apprenticeships by learning directly from masters in their communities.
Mr. Tettey noted, however, that these informal systems often lack proper regulation. As a result, apprentices simply copy the methods of their masters, whether or not those practices meet modern standards.
He said the government, through CTVET and NYA, is working to support these young people by improving and standardizing the training process so that their skills can be upgraded, regulated, and properly recognized.
Also addressing the gathering, Mr. Fohad Agbenyadzi, the National Deputy Coordinator of the National Apprenticeship Program, explained that what was being held in the Eastern Region was the first phase of the National Apprenticeship Program.
He said the focus is not on training apprentices directly at this stage, but rather on training the masters themselves.
“Before a master can train apprentices, CTVET must first assess and certify them to ensure they are fit to train others,” Mr. Agbeyage said. He added that CTVET is the only institution in Ghana mandated to assess and certify masters.
The process, he said, involves refresher training for masters, assessing their competency, and certifying them. In addition, CTVET will also inspect workshops to ensure they provide safe and conducive learning environments. Once certified, masters will be officially qualified to train apprentices under the program.
Unlike in the past, where apprentices only received informal testimonials from their masters after training, the new system will allow apprentices to graduate with a nationally recognized certificate issued by CTVET. This certificate can be used not only across Ghana but also abroad, giving apprentices greater opportunities.
Mr. Agbenyadzi further revealed that the program is being rolled out across all 16 regions of Ghana. Currently, eight regions are undertaking the program, with the remaining eight expected to commence next week.
Some masters who participated in the training expressed their gratitude to the government, describing the initiative as “one of the best interventions.” They said the program would help address unemployment among the youth, especially children from poor families who cannot afford formal education.
They added that the program will promote vocational skills, create jobs, and contribute significantly to national development.
Source:Mybrytfmonline.com/Amuzu Priscilla
