Bompata Nifahene Urges Government to Strengthen TVET to Secure Youth Future
The newly enstooled Nifahene of the Asante Akyem Bompata Traditional Area, Nana Yamoah Agyemang, has called on government to intensify investment in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), describing it as a critical pillar for securing the future of Ghana’s youth and addressing rising graduate unemployment. Asante Akyem Bompata is located in the Asante Akim South District of the Ashanti Region.
Nana Yamoah Agyemang, who also serves as the Principal of Tetrefu Technical Institute, said the country’s development efforts would fall short if young people continue to depend largely on academic qualifications without practical and employable skills. He stressed that a strengthened TVET system would empower the youth with hands-on competencies, promote self-reliance and entrepreneurship, and reduce the growing dependence on government for white-collar jobs.
According to him, the role of traditional leadership has evolved over time. He explained that while chieftaincy in the past was largely focused on land protection and warfare, modern chieftaincy must be anchored on the welfare of the people and meaningful contributions 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. 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 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 curb youth and graduate unemployment but would 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.
