The government has announced a GH₵410 million investment package aimed at accelerating job creation and skills development among Ghanaian youth.

Speaking at the Government Accountability Series held at the Jubilee House on Monday, August 4, the Minister for Youth Development and Empowerment, George Opare Addo, disclosed that GH₵110 million has been earmarked for the nationwide rollout of the Adwumawura Programme. An additional GH₵300 million has been allocated to the National Apprenticeship Programme (NAP).

“This year alone, GH₵110 million has been dedicated to operationalising Adwumawura across the country. This financial commitment reflects the seriousness of the Mahama administration in addressing youth unemployment, not through rhetoric but with real investment,” Opare Addo stated.

The Adwumawura Programme, launched by President John Mahama in April this year, is the government’s flagship initiative designed to tackle youth unemployment by supporting innovative business ideas and providing young entrepreneurs with access to capital, mentorship, and technical support.

According to the Minister, public enthusiasm towards the initiative has been overwhelming. “In the first week of opening applications, we received over 8,000 submissions. As of today, that number has surpassed 11,000, and all applications are currently under review,” he revealed.

Turning his attention to the National Apprenticeship Programme, Mr. Opare Addo explained that the GH₵300 million allocation will ensure that cost barriers to skills training are eliminated for young people seeking vocational and technical expertise.

“The Apprenticeship Programme will officially commence on August 12, 2025, when we matriculate our first batch of trainees. This is a deliberate intervention to equip young Ghanaians with hands-on skills that translate directly into jobs and entrepreneurship opportunities,” he said.

Launched by President Mahama in Tamale, the National Apprenticeship Programme is central to the government’s strategy to formalise skills development within the informal sector, which employs a significant portion of Ghana’s workforce.

“The President’s vision is clear. Job creation must be practical, scalable, and inclusive. These investments are not token gestures. They represent a comprehensive agenda to reset the country’s youth employment narrative,” Opare Addo emphasised.

The Minister concluded by urging young Ghanaians to take full advantage of these opportunities, reiterating that the Mahama administration remains committed to building a sustainable economy where young people are equipped and empowered to thrive.