The Principal of Ejuraman Technical Institute, Mr. Bernard Tabi Amponsah, underscored the need for the government to prioritize technical education as a key driver of job creation and economic development.
As the head of one of Ghana’s leading technical institutions, Mr. Amponsah emphasized the crucial role technical education plays in equipping students with practical skills that lead to immediate employment opportunities, thereby contributing to the nation’s progress.
Expressing his concerns over the limited attention given to technical education under the Technical, Industrial, Vocational, and Entrepreneurship Training (TIVET) policy, he noted that despite its potential to generate jobs, the sector has not received sufficient support.
In an exclusive interview, he, therefore, urged the government to make technical education a top priority, as strengthening this sector would significantly boost the economy.
During the interview, Mr. Amponsah highlighted pressing infrastructural challenges at Ejuraman Technical Institute, including the urgent need for a 12-unit classroom block, a three-story building with three stores, boys’ and girls’ dormitories, four workshops, a sickbay, assembly and dining halls, a 12-seater toilet facility, an administration block, an ICT laboratory, and official vehicles.
To address these concerns, he has formally submitted requests to the Ghana Education Service (GES) headquarters, the Ejura Traditional Council, and the Ejura Sekyeredumase Municipal Assembly for urgent intervention.
Despite these challenges, Mr. Amponsah acknowledged the unwavering support of the Ejura Traditional Council and expressed gratitude to the United States Embassy in Ghana for its recent contributions to the school’s infrastructure.
He also revealed that One Child UK, a UK-based non-governmental organization (NGO), has assured the school of its commitment to providing additional structures to enhance the institution. He remains optimistic that the NGO will fulfill its promise before the end of the year.
Believing firmly in the transformative power of technical education, Mr. Amponsah called on parents to consider enrolling their children in technical institutions instead of solely relying on general secondary education for white-collar job prospects.
“Technical education offers numerous advantages and practical skills that can lead to lifelong success,” he stated.
His call to action is particularly relevant as Ghana continues to battle high unemployment rates. Prioritizing technical education will not only equip students with industry-relevant skills but also help bridge the gap between the workforce and the job market, ultimately fostering job creation and national economic growth.
