The Manhyia South constituency in the Ashanti Region is set to become a hub for shoemakers.
The project initiated by the former Member of Parliament,Dr Mathew Opoku Prempeh, aims to alleviate unemployment among the youth in the constituency, started with shoemakers and has the vision of making the constituency a shoemaking hub in the country.
According to NAPO, education is key to development, but apprenticeship is equally important.
Speaking at a gathering to officially launch the Manhyia South Shoemaking Hub Project and graduation ceremony today,he emphasized that the project is designed to equip the beneficiaries with skills that can help them secure decent jobs and improve their economic well-being.
NAPO suggested that the Dichemso Block B be used as a shoemaking hub, where artisans can come together to showcase their skills and produce high-quality products.
NAPO stressed that apprenticeship is crucial in reducing unemployment and criminal activities among the youth.
He noted that education without decent jobs is meaningless and encouraged the beneficiaries to take advantage of the project to acquire skills that can help them secure meaningful employment. NAPO advised the shoemakers to aim for the global market, rather than limiting themselves to the local market.
NAPO’s vision for the project goes beyond just empowering the beneficiaries.
He wants to help build artisans beyond Ghana, creating a brand that can compete with the best in the world. He encouraged the shoemakers to create products that meet the standards of Ahenemma, a befitted chiefs’ standards, and to strive for excellence in their craft.
NAPO assured the beneficiaries that he will do everything possible to support the project and ensure its success. He promised to build on the foundation laid by his predecessor and to make meaningful contributions to the development of the constituency. With stakeholders like NAPO behind them, the shoemakers have a lot to look forward to.
With the right support and guidance, the beneficiaries can acquire skills that can help them secure decent jobs and improve their economic well-being.
The project is a step towards economic development, and it is hoped that it will have a positive impact on the lives of the people in the constituency. As NAPO said, “Your craft is your power,” and with the right support, the shoemakers can unlock their full potential and achieve greatness.
At the end of the program all the 35 apprentices graduated successfully where they were awarded with certificate.
Source:Ayisah Foster|Punch newspaper
