At the 2024 Africa Skills Week, the Director-General of the Commission for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (CTVET), Ghana, Dr. Fred Kyei Asamoah, delivered a powerful message on the country’s transformative journey in technical and vocational education.
Speaking at the event hosted under the theme, “Boosting Excellence and Innovation in TVET: Interregional Policy Dialogue and Global Agenda Setting,” Dr. Kyei Asamoah emphasized Ghana’s pivotal role in advancing technical and vocational education on the continent.
The Director-General outlined key policy reforms spearheaded by the government, most notably the introduction of Free TVET, a flagship initiative of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.
“Free TVET has removed financial barriers and has made technical education accessible to all,” the Director General said.
He added: “This is not just about making education affordable; it’s about positioning TVET as an attractive, first-choice option for young people looking to gain relevant skills for the modern job market.”
He also highlighted the significant role of the Competency-Based Training (CBT) model and the Ghana Jobs and Skills Project, initiatives that are reshaping the way technical education is delivered in Ghana. By aligning training with industry needs, Ghana is ensuring that its graduates are prepared for the demands of a rapidly evolving economy.
The Director-General underscored the importance of international cooperation, stressing that interregional partnerships are essential in addressing common challenges like youth unemployment, skills shortages, and the need for continuous upskilling.
Ghana’s leadership in setting up Sector Skills Bodies (SSBs) was presented as a model for other African countries to emulate, ensuring that TVET institutions are closely aligned with the industries they serve. He called on global stakeholders to strengthen Centres of Excellence and foster innovation ecosystems by connecting research and industry.
As Dr. Kyei Asamoah concluded, he reinforced Ghana’s commitment to the UNESCO Strategy for TVET 2022-2029, advocating for a global TVET agenda that promotes excellence, lifelong learning, and social inclusion.
“Ghana is ready to continue leading the way in transforming TVET in Africa,” he remarked, “and we invite our partners to join us in shaping a future where skills drive sustainable development.”
