Mr Richard Kwame Sefe, Member of Parliament for the Anlo Constituency in the Volta Region, has inaugurated the second phase of his youth empowerment initiative for unemployed graduates in his constituency.
It is aimed at creating employment opportunities and equipping the youth with relevant skills.
The event, held at EP Church Anloga-Agorve, served as a platform for dialogue with the youth in his constituency to gather data on their expertise and qualifications.
The programme was co-hosted by key stakeholders and some executives of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), including representatives from the National Youth Authority (NYA).
It provided an avenue for participants to engage in discussions on topics essential for future opportunities.
According to Mr Sefe, the second phase was designed to enhance productivity among all those who completed various levels of education but were unemployed in the constituency.
The first phase, conducted between 2021 and 2024, benefited approximately 1,000 young people who received training in various vocational skills, including dressmaking, welding, plumbing, auto mechanics, and other crafts.
During the session, participants were educated on professional business proposal writing, the preparation of standard curriculum vitae, and effective networking strategies to access opportunities.
Additionally, a team was established to collect accurate data on the attendees, including their bio data, and academic and professional qualifications. This effort aimed to build a comprehensive database to serve as a reference point for future employment engagements.
Addressing attendees, Mr Sefe assured them of a renewed focus on youth empowerment in Anlo.
He stated that “By the end of June, the outcomes of today’s exercise will begin to materialised. The welfare of my people remains my top priority, and I am committed to pursuing this at all times.”
He also emphasised the need for a robust database, explaining, that “Although the new John Mahama administration has several youth employment programmes to be implemented, it is also our responsibility as representatives to create the necessary avenues.
“Having a reliable database allows us to promptly connect beneficiaries with national opportunities as they arise,” Mr Sefe said.
The programme saw the participation of over 1,000 youth, made up of graduates who completed teaching and nursing training colleges, other tertiary institutions and Senior High Schools but were yet to be employed.
Their information was collated and would subsequently be synchronised into the newly established database for subsequent initiatives.
Mr Francis Susuawu, Director of the NYA, commended the MP’s initiative, noting, “Youth employment constitutes about 60 per cent of all employment in Ghana. This initiative by the MP will significantly contribute to preparing the youth for available opportunities.”
Mr Rolex Agbey Miheso, Anlo NDC Party Chairman, also encouraged the youth to remain disciplined and avoid social vices that could hinder their chances of securing employment.
He reiterated the party’s commitment to fostering a culture of youth empowerment within the constituency.
Some participants engaged by the GNA said the initiative was a sign of hope for them, adding that, “Some of us have been waiting at home for years since we completed school. This programme should not be a nine-day wonder but serve as a preparatory stage for our employment.”
Benard Worlali Awumee/Ghanamps.com
