A nonprofit in the United Kingdom (UK) that supports youth employment, education, and entrepreneurship says it is seeking to expand its programs so that more young people in the country may benefit.
Since 2019, the Prince's Trust International, which was formed by the Prince of Wales and is assisting in the fight against global crises, including youth unemployment, has assisted 1,500 young citizens on a trial basis.
It has aided 45,000 individuals throughout the world through interventions in 17 Commonwealth and non-Commonwealth nations.
The Prince's Trust International works with local organizations to help young people develop skills via education and entrepreneurial programs.
In Ghana, the organization has teamed with Junior Achievement, Youth Opportunity and Transformation Africa, and Environment360 to carry out programs with funding from Fidelity Bank and Bank of America.
Launch
The British High Commissioner to Ghana, Harriet Thompson, said the people's drive and enthusiasm were inspirational during the opening of the charitable organization in Accra last Wednesday.
"The United Kingdom and Ghana have made significant progress in assisting young people in finding work or developing entrepreneurial abilities. I'm excited to keep working on this project.
"I'm thrilled that organizations like the Prince's Trust International and their local partners are providing possibilities for young people, particularly in burgeoning industries like the green economy," she said.
Will Straw, the Chief Executive Officer of Prince's Trust International, said the organization was looking forward to expanding its work with Ghanaian partners by providing chances for young people to prepare for the labor market, particularly green and sustainable occupations and enterprises.
"As we expand our work here and throughout the world, we're looking for partners who are prepared to invest in future skills programs, with an emphasis on digital and green economy, to help young people get ready for the workforce," he added.
Mr Straw went on to say that young people needed to be more entrepreneurial than ever to prosper in an increasingly demanding world, and that "our work offers them the means to accomplish their dreams."
Julian Opuni, Managing Director of Fidelity Bank, said the bank was honored to be a part of the program, which aims to offer job possibilities for young people among other things.
Eleven young people were recognized for their efforts and inventions.
For their innovation in recycling coconut husks into various products, including necklaces, earrings, storage bowls, and soap dishes, a group of four — Prince Amofah Mingle, Gifty Opuni, Jessica Sarpong, and Christabel Ayitey — were named Regional Winners for Africa of The Prince's Trust International Group Sustainability Award.
Lydia Gyasi and Yahaya Seidu were given the Inspiration Award for the Get into Green Economy Program; Queen Jenzer Dyson was given the Inspiration Award for the Vibe Check WhatsApp Program; and Sarah Aziz Nartey and Nuel Fiakpornu were given the Inspiration Award for the Skills for School Program.
Enoch Okantey Mensah and Juliet Abudu Sala received the Inspiration Awards for Teachers for their creativity in the recycling of coconut husks into various goods including as necklaces, earrings, storage bowls, and soap dishes.