TVET fund key to closing skills gap – Education Minister
By Praisebell Rosemond Larbi
The Minister for Education, Haruna Iddrisu, has expressed optimism that Cabinet will soon approve the establishment of a dedicated Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Fund, aimed at sustainably financing skills development and aligning youth training with industry demands.
Speaking at the swearing-in ceremony of the newly constituted Governing Council of the TVET Commission, Mr. Iddrisu described the proposed fund as a strategic instrument to deepen Ghana’s commitment to practical, industry-focused education and to equip young people with the skills needed to thrive in today’s job market.
“We are hopeful that Cabinet will endorse the creation of the TVET Fund, which will serve as a reliable source of funding for technical and vocational education across the country,” the Minister stated.
He stressed that the fund, once operational, would support key areas such as infrastructure development, equipment procurement, curriculum innovation, and instructor capacity building, while also fostering stronger partnerships between education providers and the private sector.
Government Prioritizing Skills for Jobs
The Education Minister reiterated the government’s pledge to prioritize practical training over theory, particularly in the context of Ghana’s broader efforts to reduce youth unemployment and stimulate entrepreneurship.
“We must ensure that our technical and vocational education institutions are producing graduates who are job-ready and capable of creating employment opportunities, not just seeking them,” Mr. Iddrisu noted.
He underscored the importance of equipping young Ghanaians with hands-on competencies that meet the evolving demands of sectors such as construction, agriculture, energy, manufacturing, and ICT.
Council Urged to Align with Industry
Mr. Iddrisu charged the newly inaugurated TVET Commission Council to collaborate effectively with stakeholders, particularly industry players and employers to shape curricula and training models that are relevant and future-ready.
“The Council has a duty to bridge the gap between the classroom and the workshop floor. This will require a commitment to industry engagement, innovation, and accountability,” he said.
Tackling Unemployment Through Skills The Education Ministry maintains that with sustainable financing and strategic oversight, Ghana can close the skills gap, boost productivity, and empower its youth population to drive economic transformation.
