Sinapi Aba unveils YAP project

Sinapi Aba Trust, a micro-finance institution, which provides loans to the vulnerable in society, especially women, has opened a new chapter in its operations with the colourful launch of the Sinapi Aba Trust Youth Apprenticeship Programme (YAP).
The YAP started in Kumasi in the year 2003 and a year later was extended to the Greater Accra Region.
Currently, it is operational in 13 metro assemblies, municipalities and districts across seven regions in the country.
YAP is a three-year project designed to improve the lives of young people between the ages of 15 to 25 through employment opportunities.
Beneficiaries of the programme are also sensitised on sexual and reproductive health problems including HIV/AIDS.
YAP is also meant to support the youth to be economically productive and develop their potential as decision-makers.
The occasion was also used to supply training materials and equipment to beneficiaries of YAP.
In all, about 50 beneficiaries received the materials and equipment including sewing machines and assorted tools and equipment valued at GH¢5,448.
Meanwhile, GH¢ 4,100 has been paid by Sinapi Aba Trust as apprenticeship fees to 20 trade masters under the programme.
Some of the vocations which the beneficiaries will venture into include aluminum fabrication, hairdressing, auto-electrical and auto-mechanic as well as tailoring.
In a remark, Madam Theodosia Jackson, a board Member of Sinapi Aba Trust, attributed the phenomenon of youth inability to enjoy economic independence to lack of marketable vocational skills.
This, according to her, makes them vulnerable to social vices.
Mrs. Jackson called for pragmatic and strategic interventions that will turn the fortunes of Ghanaian youth around and make them fully integrated into the society and contribute their quota to national development.
She entreated all stakeholders of the programme to perform their roles and responsibilities to allow them achieve the set goals.
She urged the beneficiaries to make this opportunity a turning point of their lives and strive to attain high positions.
She further advised the trade masters and apprentices to make judicious use of the materials and equipment to justify the huge sum of money invested in the programme.
On behalf of the beneficiaries, Angelina Sampana, expressed their sincere gratitude to Sinapi Aba Trust for the gesture and pledged that they would make good use of the opportunity.