Hon. Paul Andoh, the MCE has expressed his heartfelt gratitude to Government for the You Start initiative.
This was disclosed on the 8th of mat 2023 at a ceremony for the opening of a training session for the first batch of trainees under the You Start program. The MCE continued that most skills are acquired at a higher cost but this training is free. He therefore urged the participants to persevere and also attach seriousness to the programme to come out with flying colours. The participants were reminded that the applicants were many but the beneficiaries were selected through a competitive process, as such, the opportunity should not be allowed to slip.
Madam Habiba Sumani, Western North Regional Director of Ghana Enterprises Agency indicated that youth unemployment is a global challenge that was exacerbated by the Corona Virus Pandemic. She added that the youth should be empowered to start their businesses irrespective of the economic challenges. “The project is supported by Ghana Jobs and Skills Project”, she disclosed. Madam Abiba hinted that the project is being rolled out throughout the country. She maintained that the private sector is the engine of growth and also employs a larger portion of the population.
She finally explained that the programme has been splitted up into three stages namely the basic, intermediate, and advanced stages. Participants will progress to the next stage after satisfying all conditions. Assurance was also given for certification after the successful completion of the programme. The three sessions are estimated to end in August 2023.
In the Western North Region, the Programme has been grouped into two phases for the various Municipal and District Assemblies, the first phase comprises Bibiani-Anhwiaso-Bekwai, Sefwi Wiawso, Suaman, Akontombra, and Bia East. Bia West, Aowin, Juaboso, and Bodi would be considered for the second phase.
Seventy (70) youths were shortlisted for Bibiani-Anhwiaso-Bekwai Municipality. Out of the number, thirty-five (35) were enrolled for the first tranche and the remaining thirty-five (35) would be engaged next week. The participants would undergo five (5) days of intensive training in Entrepreneurship, Financial Management, and other courses.
You Start is a vehicle through which government intends to provide funding and technical support to youth and youth-led businesses that fall within this category to assist them to start, build, and grow their businesses.
The programme is expected to create jobs, unleash innovation and give hope to Ghana’s young population.