Asante Akyem Bompata Nifahene Vows to Use TVET to End Graduate Unemployment
The newly enstooled Nifahene of the Asante Akyem Bompata Traditional Area, Nana Yamoah Agyemang, has vowed to make Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) the cornerstone of his traditional leadership, describing skills development as a sustainable solution to graduate unemployment and youth economic hardship.
Nana Yamoah Agyemang, who also serves as the Principal of Tetrefu Technical Institute, said Ghana’s development agenda would remain incomplete if young people continue to depend solely on academic qualifications without practical and employable skills. He stressed that TVET equips the youth with hands-on competencies that promote self-reliance, entrepreneurship and job creation, particularly at the community level.
According to him, the institution of chieftaincy has evolved significantly over the years. He explained that while traditional leadership in the past was largely focused on land protection and warfare, modern chieftaincy must prioritize the welfare of the people and contribute meaningfully to national development. He emphasized that chiefs have a responsibility to champion education, human capital development and youth empowerment within their traditional areas.
The Nifahene made these remarks when he swore the oath of allegiance to the Paramount Chief of the Asante Akyem Bompata Traditional Area, Nana Effah-Apenteng, at a colourful traditional ceremony held in Asante Akyem Bompata in the Asante Akim South District of the Ashanti Region. The ceremony was witnessed by chiefs, elders, family members and residents from across the traditional area.
Using the occasion, Nana Yamoah Agyemang appealed to government and key education stakeholders to provide adequate tools, modern equipment and logistical support for technical and vocational institutions across the country. He noted that the lack of well-equipped workshops and training facilities continues to undermine effective TVET delivery and the production of industry-ready graduates.
He observed that strengthening technical and vocational education would not only help address graduate unemployment but also accelerate national development by producing skilled artisans, technicians and entrepreneurs capable of driving Ghana’s industrial growth and economic transformation.
The newly enstooled chief also cautioned the youth against alcohol abuse and drug use, describing such habits as destructive and detrimental to their future. He urged young people to embrace discipline, hard work and skills training, reminding them that they are the future leaders of the nation.
In addition, Nana Yamoah Agyemang issued a stern warning to individuals involved in the importation and distribution of illicit drugs targeted at the youth, calling on them to desist from activities that endanger the wellbeing and future of the younger generation.
He reaffirmed his commitment to working closely with traditional authorities, government institutions and development partners to promote education, skills training and sustainable socio-economic development in Asante Akyem Bompata and the wider Asante Akim South District of the Ashanti Region.
