The future of Ghana depends on how well we prepare today's young people for tomorrow's job market" – Osman Ayariga, Esq

The Chief Executive Officer of the National Youth Authority (NYA), Osman Ayariga, Esq., has stated that the future of Ghana depends on how well today's young people are prepared for tomorrow's job market.

He made this remark at the World Youth Skills Day celebration organized by the Commission for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (CTVET) under the theme, "Skills for a Shared Future," held at the Accra City Hotel.

Speaking on the National Youth Authority's National Apprenticeship Programme (NAP), Mr. Ayariga said the Authority is working closely with the Ministry of Youth Development and Empowerment and CTVET to ensure that more young people acquire relevant employable skills.

He disclosed that although the National Apprenticeship Programme set a target of allocating 5% of its slots to persons with disabilities (PWDs) last year, only 1.5% of beneficiaries were persons with disabilities. He assured participants that efforts would continue to increase their participation in future cohorts of the programme.

Mr. Ayariga further explained that the National Apprenticeship Programme goes beyond skills training by providing graduates with startup tools to enable them to establish their own businesses after completing their training. He urged beneficiaries not to disappoint the government by misusing the startup equipment provided to them.

He also encouraged young people to take full advantage of government interventions such as the National Apprenticeship Programme, the Edwumawura Programme, and the One Million Coders Initiative to build their skills, create employment opportunities for themselves, and become productive citizens.

According to Mr. Ayariga, young people must embrace the growing opportunities in technical and vocational education and training, as these skills provide practical pathways to self-employment and sustainable livelihoods.

He expressed his appreciation to CTVET for its continuous efforts in equipping young Ghanaians with relevant and marketable skills. He advised the youth to focus not only on obtaining TVET certificates but also on mastering practical skills while cultivating values such as diligence, punctuality, discipline, and reliability.

In concluding his address, Mr. Ayariga reaffirmed the National Youth Authority's commitment to the development and empowerment of Ghana's youth, emphasizing that the Authority remains open to partnerships and opportunities that will enhance the prospects of young people across the country