Kpandai YEA empowers 151 apprentices with start-up tools after six-month skills training

The Youth Employment Agency (YEA) in the Kpandai District of the Northern Region has presented start-up equipment to 151 apprentices who completed a six-month skills training programme, enabling them to start their own businesses.

The initiative is part of the apprenticeship programme under President John Dramani Mahama’s administration and the Youth Employment Agency, aimed at equipping young people with practical skills and the tools they need to become self-employed.

Speaking in an interview, the YEA Director for Kpandai District, Nana Kwaku Philip, said the programme is designed to ensure that beneficiaries not only acquire vocational skills but also receive the equipment needed to start their businesses after completing the training.

He explained that the 151 beneficiaries had completed their training in various vocational fields, including hairdressing, masonry, plumbing, painting and other trades.

The equipment distributed included mixing machines, baking utensils, measuring scales, mixing bowls, cake-decorating tools, hair dryers, standing hair dryers, hair clippers, combs, brushes, hair straighteners, hairdressing scissors, towels, makeup kits, and manicure and pedicure kits, among others.

Mr Kwaku Philip urged the beneficiaries to take proper care of the equipment and use them for the intended purpose to establish sustainable businesses and improve their livelihoods.

Some of the beneficiaries expressed excitement over the gesture, describing the equipment as a major boost to their ambitions.

They said the support would help them put the skills acquired during the six-month training into practice, become financially independent and build the future they desire.

The programme is expected to contribute to youth employment, entrepreneurship and skills development in the Kpandai District.