Kumasi: Over 20 students from Bourne Community College in the United Kingdom have successfully completed a training program in Batik, Tie, and Dye at the Ashanti Regional Centre for National Culture (CNC) in Kumasi. The initiative was organized by the Visual Arts Department of the CNC, with support from the Sunshine Volunteers Organisation, a non-profit entity in Kumasi.
According to Ghana News Agency, the training aimed to familiarize the students with traditional textile arts, ensuring the preservation, promotion, and sustainability of Ghana's cultural crafts. The students were guided through various basic techniques, including tools handling, hot wax application, stamping, folding, twisting, marbling, and binding methods on mercerised cotton fabric, allowing them to create unique patterns.
The hands-on experience enabled each participant to design their own batik, tie, and dye patterns, reinforcing the skills learned during the demonstrations. By the end of the session, the students were able to showcase their newly acquired skills by taking home their self-made traditional textiles.
Mrs. Grace Agyapong Fosu, Acting Head of the Visual Arts Department at the CNC, highlighted the Centre's role in preserving and promoting Ghana's cultural heritage. She emphasized the importance of the Batik, Tie, and Dye department in offering training opportunities to various groups, including prisoners, to enhance job prospects and cultural preservation.
Mr. Peter Kofi Marfo, Acting Ashanti Regional Director of the CNC, praised the students for their interest and enthusiasm in the indigenous craft. He expressed the CNC's willingness to collaborate with organizations to further promote Ghanaian culture, especially as the Centre marks its 75th anniversary this year. He encouraged stakeholders and organizations to partner or support the CNC in its celebratory endeavors.
Ms. Florence Nketiah, Coordinator for the Sunshine Volunteers Organisation, expressed gratitude for the warm reception and praised the CNC management for their cooperation, expressing hopes for future collaborative efforts.