The District Director of the Youth Employment Agency (YEA) for the Ayawaso West Municipal Assembly, Mr. Theophilus Kodzo Bedzrah, has spearheaded an extensive public education and sensitization programme at Santana Ward, aimed at equipping residents with essential knowledge on business registration and skills development opportunities under government initiatives.
The outreach programme forms part of YEA’s broader strategy to deepen public awareness, promote entrepreneurship, and create sustainable employment avenues for the youth within the municipality. It brought together a cross-section of the community, including young people, artisans, traders, and small business operators, all eager to gain insights into how to formalize their enterprises and benefit from state-supported programmes.
Addressing participants, Mr. Bedzrah emphasized the critical role of business registration in ensuring credibility, legal protection, and access to financial support. He explained that many small businesses often miss out on growth opportunities due to their informal status, and urged residents to take advantage of the simplified registration processes available through relevant state institutions.
He further elaborated on the National Apprenticeship Programme, describing it as a key pathway for skills acquisition and economic empowerment, particularly for the youth. According to him, the programme provides structured training, mentorship, and in some cases, startup support to beneficiaries, enabling them to build viable careers in various trades.
Mr. Bedzrah also walked participants through the step-by-step procedures required to register their businesses and successfully apply for the apprenticeship programme. The session was highly interactive, with attendees asking questions and seeking clarification on eligibility criteria, documentation requirements, and timelines for enrolment.
Officials present at the event reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and reducing unemployment through targeted interventions such as those offered by YEA. They encouraged residents to actively participate in such programmes to improve their economic prospects and contribute to local development.
The sensitization exercise at Santana Ward is expected to significantly boost awareness and participation in YEA initiatives, while fostering a culture of entrepreneurship and self-reliance among residents. It also underscores the agency’s continued dedication to bringing its services closer to the grassroots and ensuring that no eligible individual is left behind in accessing opportunities for growth and empowerment.
Story by: Ernest Frimpong (0247220948) | Follow our social media handles @uktvghana | DM us for Ads on our website or any of our socials
