Bompata Nifahene Commits to TVET Development to Tackle Youth Unemployment
The newly enstooled Nifahene of the Asante Akyem Bompata Traditional Area, Nana Yamoah Agyemang, has committed himself to the development of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) as a strategic tool to tackle youth and graduate unemployment in the traditional area and beyond.
Nana Yamoah Agyemang, who also serves as the Principal of Tetrefu Technical Institute, said Ghana’s development aspirations would remain unattainable if the youth continue to rely solely on academic qualifications without acquiring practical and employable skills. He stressed that TVET equips young people 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 over the years, shifting from its historical focus on land protection and warfare to a modern role centered on the welfare of the people and national development. He emphasized that traditional leaders must now place education, human capital development and youth empowerment at the heart of their leadership responsibilities.
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 attended by chiefs, elders, family members and residents of 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 absence 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 reduce youth 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 to their future and personal development. 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 threaten 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.
