A Review of Apprenticeship Policies in Ghana

Abstract

This research explores the intricate landscape of apprenticeship in Ghana, focusing on the traditional apprenticeship system and the contemporary challenges it confronts. Traditional apprenticeships have long served as a fundamental mechanism for skill development, predominantly within the informal sector of the nation. Using a descriptive research approach, this study conducts a comprehensive literature review to elucidate the historical and prevailing policies designed to regulate apprenticeship in Ghana. Findings reveal that issues such as inadequate regulation, financial constraints, and a misalignment between acquired skills and employer expectations have emerged as substantial impediments to the efficacy of the system. In response to these challenges, the Ghanaian government has instigated a series of reform initiatives aimed at fortifying and modernizing the apprenticeship framework. Central to these endeavors are the National Apprenticeship Programme and the Ghana Skills Development Initiative, both seeking to formalize and enhance traditional apprenticeships. The introduction of the National Apprenticeship Policy in 2020 further cements the government's dedication to advancing apprenticeships, with a particular emphasis on competency-based training and greater integration with the formal education system. These policy reforms signify critical strides towards ameliorating the limitations inherent in the current apprenticeship system, ultimately aiming to bolster the employability of young apprentices and foster economic and social development. Effective collaboration among a spectrum of stakeholders, including governmental bodies, Master Crafts Persons, and vocational institutions, assumes paramount importance in the successful implementation and monitoring of these policies.