Urban Youth Entrepreneurship Development Programmes in Accra, Ghana: Economic Outcomes and Skill Acquisition Trajectories

Urban youth entrepreneurship in Accra, Ghana has emerged as a critical area for economic development and social inclusion. The city's growing population and urbanization have created opportunities for young entrepreneurs to start ventures, but challenges remain in terms of access to resources, skills, and mentorship. The research employs a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative surveys with qualitative interviews. Data were collected from participants of various entrepreneurship programmes in Accra over the past three years. Quantitative data on programme enrolment, participant demographics, and outcomes are analysed using descriptive statistics and inferential tests. Qualitative insights into programme experiences and impact are derived through thematic analysis. A notable finding is that participation in structured mentorship and training programmes significantly enhances participants' business skills, particularly in financial management and marketing strategies (85% of respondents reported improved skills). The study concludes that well-designed urban youth entrepreneurship development programmes can effectively enhance economic outcomes and skill acquisition among young entrepreneurs in Accra. These programmes offer a promising pathway for fostering sustainable local economies. Based on the findings, policy makers are encouraged to invest more resources into structured mentorship and training programmes, while also ensuring that these initiatives are tailored to meet specific needs of youth entrepreneurs in urban settings. Urban Youth Entrepreneurship, Accra, Ghana, Skill Acquisition, Economic Outcomes