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In an effort to boost local economic development and support youth entrepreneurship, the Chereponi District has provided support to 36 young entrepreneurs through the National Apprenticeship Programme (NAP).
The programme, which forms a key part of the government’s approach to tackling unemployment and promoting economic growth, equips young people with practical vocational skills while encouraging them to start and grow their own businesses.
For Chereponi, the initiative is particularly significant due to the district’s long-standing socio-economic challenges. Over the years, the area has struggled with issues such as tribal and land disputes, limited access to education, poor road networks, inadequate infrastructure, and high unemployment rates.
Although the district’s economy is largely based on agriculture, its growth has been limited by traditional farming methods and a lack of diversification into other sectors.
According to the District Chief Executive, Amadu Kofi Sheini, the government has identified Chereponi as a priority area for targeted development interventions, with the NAP playing a vital role in that agenda.
The 36 beneficiaries, who were trained in various trades including tailoring, carpentry, hairdressing and masonry, have been provided with tools and equipment suited to their professions. The support is expected to help them modernize their work, improve productivity and increase their earning capacity.
Speaking at the presentation ceremony, Mr. Sheini encouraged the beneficiaries to make good use of the tools and contribute to the district’s development.
He noted that the support offered them an opportunity not only to improve their personal livelihoods but also to help stimulate economic growth in the district. He also stressed that the sustainability of the programme would depend on how effectively the beneficiaries utilize the resources provided.
Some of the beneficiaries expressed appreciation for the support and shared their hopes for the future.
Ramatu, a young tailor, said the sewing machine she received would enable her to take on more clients and train other young women in her community, describing the support as a dream come true.
Another beneficiary, Abdul, a carpenter, said the new tools would help him expand his business and potentially create job opportunities for others in the district.
Source: 3news
