Nsoatre: The Social Investment Fund (SIF) has handed over the site for the construction of a GHC6.5 million ultra-modern Climate Resilient Centre at the Nsoatre Technical and Vocational Institute (NVTI) in the Sunyani West Municipality of the Bono Region to the contractor.
According to Ghana News Agency, the Accra-based TRACEF Construction and Engineering Limited is developing the centre under the 'Rebuilding Youth and Women's Livelihoods through Entrepreneurship and Employment Creation' component of the Post COVID-19 Skills Development and Productivity Enhancement Project (PSDPEP). The centre is expected to focus on wood technology, fashion design, and digital skills and will be equipped with modern tools to provide students with practical competencies that meet current labour market demands.
Mr. MacDonald Acquah, the Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist, handed over the site on behalf of Mr. Abass Adams-Nurudeen, the Chief Executive Officer of the SIF, during a ceremony at the NVTI campus in Nsoatre. He explained that the project also involves constructing three additional Technical Skills Development Centres in various regions. Mr. Acquah emphasized the importance of cooperation from traditional authorities and the institute's management and students to ensure timely completion.
He urged the contractor to adhere to the approved designs, timelines, quality standards, and environmental and safety requirements. Mr. Acquah highlighted the significance of environmental safeguards, climate change considerations, social inclusion, and gender issues as emphasized by the African Development Bank.
The project is part of a five-year agreement signed in June 2022 between the Government and the African Development Bank, financed through a US$28.5 million grant. It aims to contribute to Ghana's post-COVID-19 recovery, focusing on restoring livelihoods, income, and employment opportunities.
Mr. Kwasi Asante-Boateng, the Sunyani West Municipal Chief Executive, underscored the importance of the project for the municipality and urged students to care for government properties and focus on their training. Mr. Gabriel Gyamfi, the Bono Regional Director of TVET, described the centre as a platform for excellence and emphasized ongoing reforms in TVET education.
Nana Korang Asimpi of the Nsoatre Traditional Council expressed gratitude to the government and confirmed the council's support for the project. Mr. Alexander Sabi, the Principal of the NVTI, highlighted the benefits of the centre for the institute and the broader region, appealing for further support to address infrastructure and security needs.
The event was attended by representatives from the Ministry of Finance, SIF, and KNAK Design Partnership, the project consultant.