Those who want to ‘japa’ from this country must learn a skill before doing so — Mahama urges youth

Former President John Dramani Mahama has urged the youth to acquire work skills before leaving the country.

Speaking during a mini durbar at La-Bawaleshie in Accra on July 18, 2024, where John Dumelo was introduced as the NDC parliamentary candidate for Ayawaso West Wuogon, Mahama emphasized the importance of skills acquisition for securing jobs abroad.

"If young people have completed school and have not found a job yet, they should acquire a skill so they can enter the workforce," Mahama stated.

"There are many people who want to 'japa', but if you are 'japaing', do so with skill," he advised, referencing the local slang for emigrating.

Mahama highlighted the high unemployment rate in the Ayawaso West Wuogon constituency and stressed the essence of acquiring a skill to enhance employability.

He specifically encouraged young people who have completed Junior High School (JHS) and Senior High School (SHS) but have not pursued higher education to learn a trade or skill.

He referenced various fields such as carpentry, plumbing, and welding as valuable areas that could make individuals more competitive in the job market abroad.

Mahama additionally introduced his plan for a National Apprenticeship program, designed to provide young people with the opportunity to gain these essential skills.

Mahama urged those not currently in education or employment to take advantage of the program and equip themselves with a skill, enhancing their prospects both locally and internationally.