SIF Breaks Ground on Ultra-Modern TVET Centers in Otaakrom to Curb Youth Unemployment

SIF Breaks Ground on Ultra-Modern TVET Centers in Otaakrom to Curb Youth Unemployment

The Social Investment Fund (SIF) has officially handed over a project site for the construction of four specialized training centers in Otaakrom, located in the Atwima Mponua District.

The centers designed to focus on electrical engineering, fashion design, and digital skills will be equipped with modern technology to provide students with practical competencies tailored to current labor market demands.

The initiative is a key part of 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 handing-over ceremony was attended by the Chiefs and people of Otaakrom, whose presence underscored a collective community drive for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET).

Mr. Abass Adams Nurudeen, CEO of the Social Investment Fund, noted that this event marks a critical transition from the planning phase to active implementation. He emphasized that the facilities are intended to strengthen Ghana’s education sector by bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and industrial application.

“These facilities will significantly improve training while creating vital opportunities for skills development and employment,” Mr. Nurudeen stated. “Expected to be completed within 18 months, the centers will be furnished with state-of-the-art equipment to position our youth for modern industrial opportunities.”

The District Chief Executive (DCE) for Atwima Mponua, Hon. Issahak Ibrahim, highlighted the project as a pillar of the government’s vision to transform the educational landscape. He noted that moving away from “routine” education toward TVET is the most effective way to eradicate youth unemployment.

“This project is not merely about infrastructure; it is about hope, opportunity, and the creation of a skilled generation capable of driving the future development of our district and Ghana at large,” Hon. Ibrahim remarked.

The DCE urged the SIF to expedite procurement processes to ensure that equipment arrives simultaneously with the building’s completion. He also challenged teachers to use the center strictly for its intended purpose empowering students-rather than for private business interests.

Mr. Samuel Akrasi, Principal of the Otaakrom Technical and Vocational Institute, described the intervention as “timely and strategic.” He noted that the initiative would create workplace ready learning opportunities, addressing the shortage of skilled manpower in Ghana’s industrial sector.

“This unique TVET programme will go a long way in bridging the demand gap between industry and academia,” Mr. Akrasi emphasized.

Story by Anita Frimpong