Former President John Dramani Mahama has urged young people to acquire practical skills before considering relocating abroad.
Mahama believes that possessing a skill greatly enhances one’s chances of finding employment in other countries.
“If young people have completed school and have not found a job yet, they should acquire a skill so they can enter the workforce.
“There are many people who want to ‘japa’, but if you are ‘japaing’, do so with a skill,” Mahama advised.
Mahama made these comments during a mini durbar at La-Bawaleshie in Accra on July 18, 2024, where John Dumelo was announced as the NDC’s parliamentary candidate for Ayawaso West Wuogon.
Emphasizing the high unemployment rates in Ayawaso West Wuogon, Mahama highlighted the importance of vocational training.
He encouraged young people who have completed Junior High School (JHS) or Senior High School (SHS) but have not pursued further education to acquire practical skills.
He also mentioned the upcoming National Apprenticeship Program, which he intends to launch, as a key opportunity for youth to gain valuable skills.
Mahama urged those not currently engaged in education or work to take advantage of this program to enhance their job prospects.