The Commission of Technical Vocational Education (CTVET) and the German Development Cooperation (GIZ) have stressed the importance of continuous collaboration and industry involvement in Ghana’s Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) to shape the future of skills development.
At a media engagement held at Kumasi Technical University (KsTU), they indicated that partnerships between government, industry, and development partners are crucial, with the potential to transform the TVET system and ensure training programs meet evolving labour market needs.
Speaking for the GIZ, Mr. Michael Andivi Naah, a Technical Advisor with GIZ, said It was important for government, industry, and development partners to work hand in hand in ensuring that TVET graduates are equipped with the skills and competencies required to succeed in today’s dynamic economy.
Highlighting the significance of Sector Skills Bodies (SSBs) in economic development, Mr. Naah noted that incorporating industry insights into curriculum development and providing hands-on training opportunities are pivotal in shaping the next generation of skilled professionals.
The Director-General of CTVET, Dr. Fred Kyei Asamoah, in his address, stressed the relevance of industry involvement from the start of skills training to improve TVET implementation quality and success.
According to him, forging partnerships with the private sector will enhance the productivity and competitiveness of the skilled workforce.
“Private sector involvement is crucial for the success of TVET implementation at all levels,” he said.
Dr. Kyei Asamoah called on the private sector and industry players to become key drivers of TVET in Ghana, emphasizing a sectoral approach to skills development to address sector-specific challenges.
For his part, Prof Gabriel Dwomoh, Vice Chancellor of Kumasi Technical University welcomed the establishment and development of Sector Skills Bodies, highlighting their significance in bridging the gap between academia and industry.
He said the engagement on industry-academia relationships will serve as a significant impact in transforming TVET for accelerated development and guaranteed employability of the country.
The event, organized by the Commission for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (CTVET) in collaboration with GIZ and KsTU under the “Pact for Skills: Support to the Transformation of the TVET System in Ghana,” served as a crucial platform to spotlight the importance of SSBs in shaping a skilled and responsive workforce.
Operating under the Commission for TVET, SSBs focus on reducing skills gaps, improving productivity, increasing employability, and promoting sustainable development through research.