The Chairman of Techiman Garages Association, Mr. Stephen Afena, , has appealed to all political parties to as a matter of importance integrate artisans and youth development into their manifestos and plans.
Mr. Stephen Afena, said although the introduction of the Free Senior High School policy is a good initiative by the NPP led government as it has increased access to education, it has however pulled most of the youth from venturing into artisanship making many youths remain unemployed after completing school. He therefore prayed to the next government to have some package for artisan, especially for apprentices.
He believes should the next government factor the welfare of apprentices, it will serve as a catalyst for the youth to venture into artisanship which will help to reduce the rate of unemployment in the country as most of the graduates from the various education institutions are home searching for jobs.
“It’s our prayer that any party that will win this year’s elections will have some package for our artisans. Due to the Free SHS policy, all our apprentices are now going to school, most parents believe if they send their children to come and learn the trade, they will spend a lot on them compared to sending them to school.
“Because when they go to school, they will at least eat for free but when they venture into apprenticeship, the parents will be the one to give them money for school and as a result, most of the apprentices are abandoning the trade. He said.
He emphasized the need for incentives to encourage youths to venture into artisanship, citing the benefits of employment and self-sufficiency.
“So we pray that any party that will come to power will have some kind of package for us at least they can provide the tools for the apprentice so that they can also have some kind of love and passion to venture into the job.” He said
Mr. Afena’s appeal comes as political parties prepare to launch their campaigns, and his emphasis on youth development and artisanship highlights the need for inclusive and practical policies that address the needs of all citizens.
Source: Elvisanokyenews.com
