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The Minister for Roads and Highways and Member of Parliament for Bantama Constituency, Hon. Francis Asenso Boakye, has hailed the Free Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) policy as a cornerstone for Ghana’s economic transformation. Addressing the 32nd Graduation Ceremony of Suntreso Technical Institute (STI) in Kumasi, Hon. Asenso Boakye described TVET as the most effective tool for equipping the youth with practical skills necessary for sustainable development.
The ceremony, themed “Quality TVET Skills: A Requisite Tool for Development and Quality Life,” brought together government officials, educators, parents, and students to celebrate the achievements of the graduating class.
TVET: The Future of Ghana
Hon. Asenso Boakye emphasized the vital role of TVET in addressing youth unemployment and building a skilled workforce to drive national growth. He noted that while traditional educational pathways such as senior high schools and universities are important, TVET provides unmatched opportunities for hands-on skills acquisition.
“TVET education is a game changer for this nation. It offers the youth a unique opportunity to gain practical skills that are essential for employment and entrepreneurship. I urge all young people to embrace this initiative and make the most of the Free TVET education policy,” he said.
The Minister highlighted the government’s significant investment in the TVET sector, including the construction of modern workshops, ICT laboratories, and dormitories across the country, as well as the retooling of 34 TVET institutions. These efforts, he added, are part of the government’s commitment to making technical education more accessible and impactful.
Quality TVET: A Lifeline for the Future
Ashanti Regional Director of TVET, Mr. Richard Addo Gyamfi, also addressed the gathering, underscoring the importance of quality technical education in equipping young people with skills that align with the demands of the modern job market.
“Quality TVET systems adapt to changing labor market needs, bridging the skills gap and fostering sustainable economic growth. By investing in TVET, we are investing in the future of our youth and the prosperity of our nation,” he said.
Mr. Addo Gyamfi applauded the government’s strides in enhancing TVET delivery and called for continuous collaboration among stakeholders to ensure its sustainability.
Personal Testimony on TVET Impact
Lawyer Mrs. Freda Antwi, CEO of Jofel Catering Services Limited and Chairperson of the event, shared her inspiring journey, attributing her success to her early exposure to TVET.
“My journey with technical and vocational education began in the kitchen of my family’s catering business. Today, as the CEO of Jofel Catering Services, I can confidently say that the practical skills I gained through TVET have been instrumental in shaping my entrepreneurial success,” she recounted.
She urged the graduating students to use their skills to innovate and contribute meaningfully to Ghana’s industrial and economic growth.
Celebrating Success Amid Challenges
Principal of Suntreso Technical Institute, Mr. Ebenezer Quarcoo, commended the graduands for their determination and hard work. He highlighted the institution’s achievements, including improved facilities and academic performance, while also acknowledging challenges such as inadequate funding and resources.
Mr. Quarcoo called for increased support from government and private sector stakeholders to address these challenges and further enhance the quality of TVET education.
Moving Forward
The ceremony concluded with a charge to the graduands to utilize their skills to build better lives for themselves and contribute to their communities and the nation. Hon. Asenso Boakye reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening the TVET sector and ensuring that it remains a pivotal part of Ghana’s development strategy.
As Ghana continues to invest in technical and vocational education, the Free TVET policy stands as a beacon of hope for the youth, equipping them with the skills needed to thrive in a competitive and dynamic world.
Conclusion
The 32nd Graduation Ceremony of Suntreso Technical Institute was a celebration of the transformative power of TVET, underscoring its role as a driving force for national development. With continued investments and collaborative efforts, TVET is poised to redefine Ghana’s future.
By Alex Nti (Despite Media)
