Tamale: The Design and Technology Institute (DTI), in partnership with the Dabokpa Technical Institute (DABTECH), has launched the Precision Quality Initiative in Tamale to bolster Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and enhance livelihoods.
According to Ghana News Agency, the initiative, supported by the Mastercard Foundation, is part of a larger public-private partnership aimed at equipping young people, particularly women, marginalized groups, and persons with disabilities, with market-relevant skills for employment and entrepreneurship.
Mr. Mohit Sharma, Project Coordinator of DTI, stated during the launch that DTI is supporting the targeted refurbishment of key training facilities at DABTECH, including welding, fashion, hospitality and catering, and software development workshops. This effort aims to integrate the Precision Quality curriculum and ethos into the school's programs, expanding access to students, DTI interns, learners from other institutions, and unemployed youth in surrounding communities.
Mr. Sharma emphasized that this initiative represents a significant advancement in redefining work-based learning through strategic collaboration with technical universities. It is grounded in global best practices, industry-aligned curricula, cutting-edge equipment, applied research, and expert-led instruction, setting a new national benchmark for innovation, skills development, and workforce readiness. Over the years, DTI has formed strategic partnerships with academic institutions, industry stakeholders, and the public sector to transform TVET in Africa.
Madam Mariama Mahama, Principal of DABTECH, highlighted that the launch is not only about refurbishing facilities but also about equipping young people with the skills, confidence, and mindset needed to succeed in a competitive economy. She stated, "Today's economy is about TVET. This initiative is a bold step towards aligning TVET with the demands of industry. Precision Quality is the hallmark of global competitiveness."
Mr. Issah Musah, Northern Regional Director of Ghana TVET Service, praised the partnership, noting that it aligns with the government's vision of making TVET the first choice for skills development. He remarked, "Our mandate is to ensure that TVET institutions deliver training that is relevant, inclusive, and transformative. This initiative strengthens linkages between training institutions and industry, promotes competency-based learning, and upholds quality standards."
Mr. Tia Rafik Namzooya, Manager of Nim Avenue Hotel, expressed that the Precision Quality Initiative would help bridge the gap between classroom training and industry expectations, particularly in the hospitality sector. He added, "For too long, a gap has existed between the skills taught in classrooms and the exact standards demanded by the market. Today that gap is being bridged. This is more than an upgrade of equipment; it is an upgrade of potential."
