By: Nana Kwasi Roka

Deputy Minister of Education, Dr. Clement Apaak, has encouraged participants of the National Apprenticeship Programme (NAP) to see themselves as future Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) by transforming their acquired skills into thriving businesses and job opportunities.

Speaking at the Matriculation and Induction Ceremony of the programme in Tamale, Dr. Apaak said, the initiative is deliberately designed to train, certify and empower Ghanaian youth to go beyond seeking jobs to becoming business leaders and innovators.

“This initiative is designed to equip you with the skills, knowledge and mindset necessary to become leaders in your chosen trades. You are the future CEOs of your own enterprises, the employers who will hire others and the skilled workforce that will build the infrastructure of our nation,” he stressed.

He disclosed that, apprentices will receive certification in nine critical trades, including ICT, agriculture, construction, renewable energy and catering – sectors he described as vital to national growth and transformation.

Dr. Apaak also highlighted the crucial role of trainers and master craftspersons, who, he called “custodians of tradition and architects of innovation.” He explained that refresher courses have equipped trainers to blend traditional knowledge with modern, competitive skills that meet national and international standards.

According to him, certification opens doors for artisans, giving them an edge in the job market. “A certified artisan commands a higher fee, secures more contracts and gains access to formal financial services and government contracts,” he said.

The Deputy Minister urged families, guardians and trade associations to fully support the programme, stressing that success depends on discipline, vision and innovation among apprentices.

Concluding, Dr. Apaak described the National Apprenticeship Programme as more than a skills training initiative. He said it is a strategic investment aimed at turning Ghana’s youth into CEOs, job creators and catalysts for national development.