The Dormaa East District Director of the Youth Employment Agency (YEA), who also holds the position of Presiding Member of the Dormaa East District Assembly, Hon. Isaac Afi, has noted that in the past three months since he assumed his role as YEA Director, the Youth Employment Agency has had a significant impact in the Dormaa East District.
He stated that this impact has been realized through the creation of over 250 job opportunities. These include roles such as Community Police Assistants, Community Fire Assistants, Youth in Ambulance Service, and opportunities for employment abroad, among other YEA modules, which have contributed to establishing improved standards of living for all beneficiaries.
Hon Isaac Afi emphasized that the National Apprenticeship Program, a key component of the NDC’s campaign promises prior to the 2024 general elections, which contributed to their electoral victory, has been piloted nationwide. In Dormaa East, 55 apprentices have benefited from this initiative, along with 10 master craftsmen who are also beneficiaries tasked to train the apprentices. He announced that the devices and equipment necessary for the apprentices’ training will be distributed to them within the week, with each beneficiary receiving a monthly allowance of Gh¢300.
He mentioned that the YEA is implementing a policy known as Youth in Skill Training. In the district, 108 individuals have benefited from this program, and they will also receive a monthly allowance to support their sustenance, enabling them to focus on their training for a more promising future.
Hon Isaac Afi expressed his disappointment regarding the lack of interest in skill training among the male youth in the Dormaa East District.
He emphasized that out of the 108 beneficiaries, only six males showed interest by submitting forms to participate, and even reaching out to them to assign their learning places has proven challenging. He attributed this issue to the males’ preference for quick money, which has led them to engage in activities such as Galamsey and Pragya riding. He advised them to consider skill training as it would enable them to integrate into society both locally and internationally. He noted that skill development offers significant potential for the youth, underscoring the importance of male youths to actively participate in the Youth Employment Agency (YEA) skills training program for their future.
He also urged all master craftsmen and craftswomen in the Dormaa East District who have not yet benefited from the ongoing apprenticeship program to remain patient, as additional opportunities will become available in the coming months. This will allow more apprentices to be drawn into the program, benefiting master craftsmen and craftswomen, and aiding in the skills development and craftsmanship of Ghanaian youths for a brighter future.
Story By: Kwaku Mensah Abrampa (Dormaa Ahenkro)
