526 young people have successfully graduated from the Precision Quality Internship Programme in Ghana's Volta Region. This initiative equips participants with practical skills and entrepreneurial knowledge, directly improving their employability and ability to create new businesses.
The six-month program, a joint effort by Precision Quality, the Design and Technology Institute (DTI), and Ho Technical University (HTU), received crucial support from the Mastercard Foundation. It targets young individuals aged 18 to 35, providing them with industry-relevant skills for both employment and entrepreneurship. Training covered diverse fields including business and professional development, precision welding and fabrication, hospitality and hotel management, and precision fashion design and apparel.
This program fits into Ghana's broader economic strategy to tackle youth unemployment and promote local economic development. The government, through various agencies, actively supports such initiatives to decentralize skills development and create opportunities outside major urban centers. Similar efforts include the National Apprenticeship Programme, which provides practical training and start-up tools to young entrepreneurs.
Mr. Christian Yao Amexo, the Regional Centre Manager for Precision Quality Internship in the Volta Region, stated that beneficiaries could receive starter kits valued at approximately USD 600. Entrepreneurs with strong business ideas can also compete for larger funding support. He emphasized that the program's focus extends beyond financial aid, aiming to transform individuals and change the narrative of others.
The program's implications are significant for Ghana's youth employment landscape. By providing tangible skills and financial support, it fosters a new generation of entrepreneurs and skilled workers. Decision-makers and markets will observe how these graduates contribute to local economies and potentially reduce unemployment rates in the Volta and Oti regions. Continued collaboration between educational institutions, private sector entities, and development partners remains crucial for sustaining these positive outcomes.
Mr. John Kporfor, CEO of Kporfor Farms and a previous beneficiary, highlighted the program's impact. He received USD 1,000 in seed funding, which helped him expand his agricultural enterprise from 1,000 bags to between 2,000 and 2,500 bags. This demonstrates the direct economic benefit and growth potential for participants.
Mr. Charles Kwesi Gomenu, Ho Municipal Director of the National Youth Authority (NYA), urged graduates to explore entrepreneurship beyond traditional white-collar jobs. He noted the NYA's collaboration with institutions like the Ghana Enterprises Agency (GEA) to support young people through apprenticeships and enterprise development. These partnerships are vital for addressing the persistent challenge of youth unemployment in Ghana.
The graduation ceremony also recognized outstanding performance among the interns. Madam Hester Mortoo received the Best Exceptional Intern award, while Madam Ramatu Zakari was named the Most Transformed Intern. Madam Elorm Anani earned the Most Exceptional Course Representative award in Hospitality. Additionally, Mr. Gideon Tanyegbe and four others were recognized as overall best interns, receiving sponsorship from Fidelity Bank. Three teams, including Trust Hands and Selis Threads, received USD 1,000 awards for their innovative business ideas in Business Skills and Professional Development.
Mr. Amexo reiterated that the ultimate goal is to shift the narrative surrounding youth unemployment. The program aims to empower young people to acquire practical skills, build sustainable businesses, and create opportunities for others. He stressed the importance of collaboration, continuous learning, and disciplined use of financial support for long-term success.