Otaakrom: Mr. Samuel Akrasi, Principal of the Otaakrom Technical Institute in the Atwima Mponua District, has urged the media and research institutions to pay greater attention to youth unemployment after second-cycle education in the country.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Akrasi emphasized that increased reportage and research on unemployment among graduates of Senior High Schools and other second-cycle institutions would help create awareness at both grassroots and national levels. This, he noted, could compel authorities and stakeholders to take the necessary steps to address the challenge. He shared these insights during an interview following a sod-cutting ceremony for the construction of four state-of-the-art workshops for the Institute.
Mr. Akrasi highlighted the importance of the media and researchers investigating and publishing data on unemployed graduates from Senior High Schools and other second-cycle institutions. He suggested that the number of unemployed youth from these institutions exceeded those from Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions, which he believes produce more employable and self-employed youth.
He pointed out that the unemployment situation impacts both rural and urban communities, and credible research and publication of findings would enable the public to assess and validate the extent of the problem. Mr. Akrasi called for increased investment in TVET institutions through improved infrastructure, logistics, and training support to make technical education more attractive and accessible to the youth.
The principal noted that TVET education is becoming increasingly modernised and described the proposed workshops, expected to be completed within 18 months, as timely and beneficial to trainees. The $7.5 million project, funded by the Social Investment Fund (SIF), includes an administration block and modern workshops for the Fashion Designing, Catering, Electricals, and Agro-Processing Departments of the Institute.
Mr. Abass Nurudeen, Chief Executive Officer of SIF, stated that the project is part of the 28 million-dollar Post-COVID-19 Skills Development and Productivity Enhancement Project (PSDPEP). This initiative aims to improve the local economy by empowering the youth with employable skills under the TVET programme. He noted that the facility, equipped with modern training tools and equipment, would enhance practical education and prepare students and trainees for opportunities in modern industries.
Mr. Issahak Ibrahim, District Chief Executive for Atwima Mponua, described the project as a symbol of hope, opportunity, and innovation. He believes it will help nurture a skilled generation for the district and beyond. He encouraged trainees and interested youth in the area to take advantage of the institution by enrolling to acquire skills that would enable them to contribute meaningfully to the socio-economic development of the district.
'The establishment of the centre stands as a shining testament to visionary leadership, strategic collaboration and an unwavering commitment to youth empowerment and community transformation,' he stated.