Omanghana
Germany has committed $132 million to support youth skills development in Ghana, including the establishment of a university dedicated to practical training, Minister of State at the Presidency in charge of Special Presidential Initiatives, Dr Abdul-Rashid Pelpuo, has announced.
Speaking on JoyNews’ The Pulse, Dr Pelpuo said the funding would help young people strengthen their technical abilities and gain workplace experience.
Of the total package, $50 million would finance the construction of what he described as Ghana’s first skills development university. The institution would focus on practical training to improve young people’s employment prospects.
The remaining $82 million would support a placement program for young people who already possess vocational or technical skills. Participants would be assigned to companies where they could apply their knowledge and develop further experience.
According to Dr Pelpuo, the government would provide monthly financial support to trainees during their placements, reducing the financial burden on participating employers.
He explained that companies could offer employment to participants who demonstrate their value during training. Those who are not retained would still acquire experience that could help them pursue independent work or establish their own businesses.
Dr Pelpuo said the commitment followed discussions with German partners, including meetings held during a visit to Germany. He described the initiative as an effort to strengthen the connection between skills acquisition and employment opportunities for Ghanaian youth.
Source: Omanghana
