Deputy Minister for Employment and Labour Relations, Bright Wireko-Brobbey, has said it is regrettable that Ghanaians have always thought Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) is meant for less brilliant and second class citizens.
He reiterates the need for the country to give the needed attention to vocational and technical education in the country as it is the easiest way to solve the unemployment issue.
According to him, TVET is the gateway to the world of work and also helps to alleviate poverty, reduce the rate of school dropout and assist the teeming youth to secure decent jobs.
The minister made the comment at the closing ceremony of the National Vocational Technical Institute (NVTI) management meeting held at Ho in the Volta Region.
The Volta Regional Minister, Dr Archibald Letsa, who was the Chairman for the occasion said the current government was committed to making sure that issues concerning TVET] and NVTI are given the needed attention.
Dr Letsa said, “the only way to move the country forward is to give technical and vocational education the needed attention and priority.”
The Executive Director of NVTI, Mawusi Nudekor Awity, in her welcome address, said the Institute is reshaping itself to assist in the fulfilment of President Nana Akufo-Addo’s dream to industrialize the country.
She said TVET has been underestimated and little support is given to these key institutions, a situation she said was unfortunate.
Mrs Mawusi Nudekor Awity has therefore called on government to resource NVTI to enhance training of the youths in the country
She was hopeful that the National Vocational Training Institute Strategic Plan (NVTISP) will provide a roadmap for that NVTI in the quest to make NVTI centreS of excellence in vocational training nationwide.
According to her, the NVTISP is formulated to advance, uphold and strengthen the mission statement, vision and core values which will translate the idea of the Institute into tangible outcomes.
The NVTI was established under Act 351 of 1970 to coordinate at the national level all aspects of vocational training including apprenticeship.
According to the Act, NVTI’s function is to organize apprenticeship, in-plant training and training programs for industrial and clerical workers and train instructors and officers required for the purpose.
It is also to provide for vocational guidance and career development in industry as well develop training standards and evolve effective trade testing and certification policies and programs.
Source: myjoyonline.com