EDUWATCH PUSHES FOR LAW TO STRENGTHEN NATIONAL APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAMME

Education policy research organization, Africa Education Watch (Eduwatch), is calling on the Government of Ghana to establish a legal framework to guide the implementation of the National Apprenticeship Programme. The think tank believes that without proper legislation, the programme’s sustainability, quality, and accountability may be compromised.

According to Eduwatch, while the initiative has the potential to significantly reduce youth unemployment by equipping young people with practical and employable skills, its long-term success depends on a structured legal foundation. They emphasize that a legal backing would clearly outline the responsibilities of all stakeholders involved, including government agencies, private sector partners, and training institutions.

The organization also highlighted the need for strong quality assurance mechanisms and a sustainable financing model, which they believe can only be guaranteed through legislation. Eduwatch argues that a law would help formalize the programme, ensuring consistency and avoiding the challenges that often come with policy shifts and changes in political leadership.

They urged Parliament and relevant state institutions to prioritize the passage of a National Apprenticeship Bill to regulate and strengthen the programme. Eduwatch maintains that such a step is critical to making technical and vocational education a viable and respected path for Ghanaian youth.

The call comes at a time when the government is rolling out efforts to address high unemployment rates, especially among the youth, through various skill development programmes.