Ghana’s education sector is on the brink of a major transformation, with a renewed focus on Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET). The Honorable Minister of Education, Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, has outlined a bold vision aimed at aligning TVET with STEM education, practical skills, and innovation.
Speaking at the Africa Skills Week in Accra, Dr. Adutwum called for a shift in how technical education is perceived and delivered, emphasizing that TVET should become more accessible to all Ghanaians, regardless of socio-economic status.
Highlighting the critical role education plays in shaping Africa’s future, Dr. Adutwum stressed the need for quality and inclusive education to ensure that African children can compete on the global stage. He announced the government’s commitment to building new technical schools and upgrading existing facilities with modern resources. This, he said, would support the introduction of more technical courses in prominent schools across the country.
To change negative perceptions of technical education, Dr. Adutwum advocated for a robust marketing strategy that would make TVET more attractive to students. He expressed confidence that, with the right support and resources, Ghana could become a leader in TVET reform across Africa.
“We are committed to making TVET a key driver of economic growth and development in Ghana. We will work tirelessly to ensure that our youth are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the modern workforce,” he declared.
The Minister also made a plea for continued support for the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), urging Ghanaians to extend their mandate for another four years to allow the completion of their transformational agenda for the education sector.
Dr. Adutwum expressed gratitude to international partners such as the World Bank and GIZ for their support in advancing education and skills development in Ghana. He emphasized that bridging the educational gap between African children and their global peers is critical to the continent’s long-term prosperity.
H.E. Prof. Mohammed Belhocine, Commissioner for Education, Science, Technology & Innovation (ESTI) at the African Union Commission, echoed these sentiments. He highlighted the importance of investing in education and skills development for Africa’s youth, citing the continent’s growing population as both a challenge and an opportunity. Prof. Belhocine referred to the African Union’s Agenda 2063, which prioritizes education, science, technology, and innovation as essential pillars for the continent’s development.
“As we look to the future, Africa’s greatest asset is its youth. By 2050, half of the world’s youth population will be African. We must equip them with the knowledge, competencies, and skills they need to thrive in a rapidly changing global economy,” Prof. Belhocine said.
He further pointed out the mismatch between the skills many African youth possess and the demands of the labor market, which has resulted in widespread unemployment. To address this, he called for a renewed focus on TVET, STEM, and digital entrepreneurial skills, ensuring that Africa’s educational systems are aligned with the future needs of its economies.
Prof. Belhocine also emphasized the importance of public-private sector collaboration, urging that Africa Skills Week should serve as more than just a celebration it should be a call to action.
“The success of Africa in the 21st century will depend on the strength of its youth. It is our responsibility to ensure that they have the tools to shape a brighter and more prosperous future.”
He reaffirmed the African Union Commission’s commitment to supporting member states in strengthening skills development across the continent, calling for increased investment in the educational infrastructure needed to secure Africa’s future.
