In a significant event held last Tuesday in Agona Swedru, Mr. Chris Arthur, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Parliamentary Candidate for the Agona West Constituency, garnered attention and appreciation for his philanthropic efforts to combat youth unemployment in the region. He presented sewing machines, hairdryers, and associated accessories to 100 apprentices, marking the third phase of his initiative to help young individuals become self-sufficient. This initiative aligns with Mr. Arthur’s overarching goal of alleviating economic challenges among the youth, a mission he embarked upon three years ago as a supplement to the government’s broader job creation policies. By providing tangible resources, he aims to empower the youth to build sustainable livelihoods and support their families.
During the donation ceremony, Mr. Arthur urged the recipients to make the best use of the machines, emphasizing the potential impact of their newfound skills on their personal and family lives. He also introduced a monthly allowance of GHC 500 for apprentices participating in the program, stating that this financial support would alleviate basic needs during their training and encourage focus on skill development. Arthur highlighted the importance of enabling apprentices to remain committed to their learning process without resorting to unofficial income sources, which can disrupt their career trajectories.
Elaborating on the challenges often faced by graduates transitioning from apprenticeships to entrepreneurship, Mr. Arthur pointed out the financial burdens associated with starting their own businesses, particularly the costs of necessary equipment and tools. By providing these essential items upfront, he intends to mitigate this initial financial hurdle, thus allowing graduates to establish their businesses more easily. Arthur’s assertion that he began this initiative prior to his political ambitions underscores his dedication to fostering youth employment and community development, a cause he now seeks to amplify through his potential parliamentary representation.
In his address, Mr. Arthur also made a call for support from the constituents, encouraging them to vote not only for him but also for Alhaji Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia as the next President of Ghana. He took the opportunity to highlight the achievements of President Akufo-Addo’s administration, praising its focus on pro-poor policies and infrastructure projects that have brought about significant improvements in the lives of Ghanaians. Arthur’s connection to the community was reflected in his assertion that he stands as a symbol of local support, having consistently contributed to the upliftment of livelihoods in Agona West.
The event also saw the participation of local government officials, including the Agona West Municipal Chief Executive, Hon. Evans Addison Onomah Coleman. He acknowledged the government’s commitment to improving the lives of citizens through constructive policies that empower individuals and foster national growth. This recognition from local leadership reinforces the significance of Mr. Arthur’s contributions and the support for his vision to enhance community resilience and self-dependence among youth.
In concluding his remarks, Mr. Arthur reaffirmed his dedication to supporting multiple sectors within the Agona West Constituency, underscoring the importance of fostering self-reliance and sustainable economic growth. Through his initiatives, he aims to leave a lasting impact on the community, and his efforts demonstrate an alignment of personal vision with national development goals. His actions resonate with the aspirations of many young people seeking opportunities for advancement, highlighting a path towards a more prosperous future for the constituency.
