Assin-Foso (C/R),Sept 16, GNA- The Assin District Chief Executive, Mr Kwabena Karikari Apau, has advised beneficiaries of the ''Skills Training and Employment Placement (STEP)'' programme to form cooperatives to facilitate their access to financial and other assistance. Mr. Karikari-Apau made the call at a graduation ceremony for the first batch of unemployed youth who completed six months training in various vocational skills.

The 45 young people received training in batik and tie-dye production, dressmaking, carpentry and bamboo processing. He told the graduates that if they form co-operatives the assembly would be able to arrange with the Business Advisory Centre and other organisations to give them both financial and managerial assistance.

On the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), Mr Apau said an office has been set up in the district while a scheme manager and four coordinators have been appointed to see to its implementation.