Shaping the Future: Mustapha Omar Copson’s 2025 Impact on Bono Region Youth

Since assuming office as the Bono Regional Director of the Youth Employment Agency (YEA) in February 2025, Mr. Mustapha Omar Copson has led transformative initiatives that have significantly impacted the lives of young people across the Bono Region. Guided by the vision of His Excellency John Dramani Mahama and CEO Malik Basintale, which emphasizes youth empowerment through entrepreneurship, skills development, and meaningful employment,Director Omar Copson has demonstrated exemplary leadership in translating this vision into action.

Under his leadership, the Bono Regional YEA has implemented a wide range of programs aimed at creating opportunities for the youth, fostering skill acquisition, and promoting active participation in community and national development.

Government Flagship YEA Beneficiary Programs

In partnership with the YEA Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Malik Basintale, several critical initiatives were formalized through Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) to employ youth in essential public services:
• Community Police Assistants (CPA): Across the 12 districts of the Bono Region, 395 youth were employed to assist in maintaining community safety.

• Fire Service Assistants (FSA): 130 youth were engaged in supporting fire service operations across the region.

• Community Medical First Respondents (CMFR): 180 youth were trained and employed as first responders to provide essential medical support in their communities.

• Prison Service Assistants (PSA): 93 youth gained valuable work experience in the region’s correctional facilities.

Graduate Internship and Education Initiatives

Director Copson has also prioritized opportunities for graduates and educators:
• Graduate Internship Programme (GRICS-NIC): 50 youth were placed with the National Insurance Commission, gaining professional exposure and career development opportunities.

• Arabic Teachers Module: 132 youth were employed as Arabic teachers, enhancing education in various Arabic schools across the region.

Skills Development and Artisanal Training

A strong advocate for vocational and artisanal skills, Director Copson has overseen initiatives that equipped youth with practical abilities for sustainable livelihoods:
• Skills Training Module: Over 1,896 youth benefited from training in diverse skills, including carpentry, plumbing, welding, electrical work, tailoring, hairdressing, and ICT-based skills.
• Garment and Apparel Module: 256 youth received training and employment opportunities in garment and apparel production.

Entrepreneurship and Awareness Programs

Believing in the power of education and early sensitization, Mr. Copson initiated the Bono YEA Schools Sensitization Program, where a team of YEA staff visited senior high schools to educate students about entrepreneurship, skill development, and academic growth in line with H.E John Dramani Mahama’s vision for youth empowerment.

In addition, the YEA Work Abroad Module was developed to provide youth with opportunities to gain international work experience and earn income to support themselves and their families.

Leadership and Engagement with Traditional Authorities

Demonstrating a commitment to holistic leadership and community engagement, Mr. Copson led YEA district managers and directors on a courtesy visit to Osagyefo Oseadeyo Agyeman Badu II, Paramount Chief of Dormaa Traditional Council and President of the Bono Regional Traditional Council. During the visit, the team was able to introduce themselves, seek guidance, and receive advice from the esteemed traditional authority.

A Year of Impact

Through these initiatives, Mr. Mustapha Omar Copson has created meaningful employment, enhanced skills, and opened doors for youth across Bono Region. From public service opportunities to vocational training, education, and entrepreneurship, his leadership has consistently reflected the YEA’s mission of empowering the youth to contribute actively to national development while securing their personal and professional growth.

As Bono youth continue to benefit from these programs, 2025 stands as a testament to Director Copson’s unwavering commitment, proactive leadership, and dedication to transforming the lives of young people in the region.