Accra: The Vocational Training for Females (VTF) Programme, part of the Technical Vocational Education Training (TVET) Advocacy Group, has highlighted the necessity for a more robust communication strategy to promote the free TVET policy, particularly in remote communities where the information gap is a significant challenge.
According to Ghana News Agency, during a courtesy call on Dr. Eric Kofi Adzroe, the Director-General of the TVET Service, the group identified several key issues confronting the sector. Among these challenges is the poor perception of TVET among parents, teachers, and youth, which the group believes needs urgent attention. Ms. Linda Agyei, Director of the VTF Programme, emphasized research findings that indicate TVET is often seen as a secondary option for those not academically inclined, compounded by a lack of information on the free TVET policy.
The visit was part of ongoing engagements by the VTF-led Advocacy group with key stakeholders in the TVET sector, aiming to foster collaboration and wider consultation with partners. The group also pointed out administrative hurdles in accreditation, such as high costs and limited training institution capacity, as well as the exclusion of Proficiency Levels one and two from the TVET policy, which leaves many vulnerable learners unsupported.
For example, the group noted that the Akenten Appiah-Menka University of Skills Training and Entrepreneurial Development (AAMUSTED) is currently the sole provider of Competency-Based Training (CBT), limiting accessibility and progress. Mr. Tsornam Akpeloo, Greater-Accra Regional Chairman of the Association of Ghana Industries and a member of the advocacy group, addressed the issues within the Work-Study Learning (WEL) system, highlighting the weak collaboration with industries and the absence of subsidies to encourage industry participation. He advocated for stipends and insurance packages for learners.
Despite these challenges, the group praised the government's renewed commitment to the TVET sector and urged for consistent implementation of reforms to make TVET more appealing to young people. The VTF Programme, a non-governmental organization dedicated to enhancing employment opportunities for young people, especially females, through TVET, formed the advocacy group to improve the TVET sector.
Dr. Adzroe commended the group for their advocacy and candid discussions, expressing optimism that such openness will ensure the TVET sector's development. He outlined ongoing reforms, particularly integrating WEL into the academic calendar, moving it from a vacation activity to a significant part of the second semester, with liaison officers identifying industry placements, including those in the informal sector.
Dr. Adzroe reaffirmed his commitment to building a strong and inclusive TVET system and called for continued collaboration.
