42 Female Beneficiaries of National Apprenticeship Programme Pregnant and Drop Out
42 Female Beneficiaries of National Apprenticeship Programme Pregnant and Drop Out
The Central Regional Coordinator for the National Apprenticeship Programme, Ebenezer Abeiku Essien, has revealed that 42 female beneficiaries in the Central Region became pregnant and dropped out of the programme within nine months of its launch—a development he described as deeply concerning.
Speaking during a distribution event in the Upper Denkyira West District, Mr. Essien urged participants to treat the initiative seriously, noting that the government is covering all costs, including monthly allowances for beneficiaries.
He emphasized that the programme, a key NDC campaign promise aimed at tackling youth unemployment, is here to stay. So far, 10,000 people in the Central Region have benefited, with plans to expand intake to 100,000 youths nationwide this year.
Mr. Essien also warned trainers, referred to locally as “madams,” against assigning unrelated tasks, stressing that apprentices should focus solely on learning their trades.
He advised beneficiaries to avoid behaviours that could lead to dropout.
“The government has Ghanaian youths at heart,” he added.
Supporting the initiative, Upper Denkyira West District Chief Executive, Isaac Nsiah, pledged the assembly’s full support, including intensive monitoring to ensure apprentices are treated well. He called on trainers to mentor apprentices effectively and encouraged district youths to join the programme for the benefit of their families, the district, and the nation.
