The Deputy Education Minister, Dr. Clement Apaak, has praised the Takoradi Technical University for embracing inclusivity in the delivery of Technical and Vocational Education Training. 

The University had so far graduated 192 persons with hearing impairment. 

Dr. Apaak said, “I must commend you for the unique work you are doing and the need for your sister institutions to emulate.” 

The Deputy Minister for Education was speaking at the 25^th Congregation of the Takoradi Technical University which saw more than 2000 students receiving honours in undergraduate and graduate programmes. 

In all, 273 received first class honours, 1,812 second class upper, 264 with lower and two pass. 

Dr Apaak mentioned that the 25^th Congregation was not just a celebration of academic achievements, but a reaffirmation of the crucial role Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) played in Ghana’s socio-economic transformation.  

He noted that the National Education Forum reinforced the government’s commitment to strengthening TVET as a driver of industrialization, job creation, and economic development, adding that one of the key outcomes of the forum was the urgent need to bridge the gap between TVET education and industry demands. 

He noted the need to ensure that graduates were equipped with the relevant, hands-on skills required in today’s rapidly evolving job market. 

Dr Apaak said the government had intensified efforts to align the TVET curriculum with industry needs, ensuring that graduates were employable and equipped with the technical expertise to drive innovation and entrepreneurship.  

“Investment in modern infrastructure, well-equipped training centres, and cutting-edge digital tools has been prioritized to enhance practical learning.” 

 Additionally, strategic partnerships between technical universities and industry players are being strengthened to provide apprenticeship and internship opportunities that expose students to real-world applications of their skills.  

“These collaborations are designed to create a seamless transition from education to employment, reducing the skills mismatch that often hinders economic growth. Furthermore, the government recognizes that TVET is about training workers and fostering a generation of job creators.

"To this end, entrepreneurship training has been integrated to empower graduates with the knowledge and resources to establish their own businesses. 

He stated that additional financial support, scholarships, and funding opportunities for start-ups, TVET graduates, are being positioned as key contributors to Ghana’s industrialization agenda. 

The digitization of TVET education is also gaining momentum, with the introduction of smart learning technologies, automation, and artificial intelligence-driven training models that prepared students for the future of work, adding that the government remained unwavering in its commitment to strengthening TVET, investing in technical education, and ensuring that every graduate had the opportunity to succeed.  

The Deputy Minister said the Takoradi Technical University continued to be a trailblazer in this transformation, playing a critical role in shaping Ghana’s workforce for global competitiveness.  

He reminded the graduands that their education was not just a personal achievement- “it is a national asset… We count on your determination, ingenuity, and resilience to drive Ghana’s industrial transformation, and together, we will build a stronger, skills-driven economy that benefits all Ghanaians.” 

Professor Augustine Ocloo, the Deputy Director General of Ghana Technical Education Commission encouraged the graduands to seek opportunities to connect with industry, to share their ideas, and to bring their unique perspectives to the table. 

“The future belongs to those who are willing to collaborate, to learn, and to grow together. The relationships you build today can become powerful networks that support your career and personal growth” he added. 

Reverend Professor John Frank Eshun, the Vice Chancellor of the TTU, said the University was committed to academic excellence and innovation, adding that “we are in the process of introducing PhD and Doctor of Technology programmes to expand our academic portfolio.”  

He said the long-term goal was to develop PhD programmes across all faculties, ensuring that the TTU provided advanced research and learning opportunities that aligned with the evolving demands of both academia and industry.  

He told the graduates: “The technical education you have received at Takoradi Technical University has not only sharpened your skills but also empowered you to innovate, create opportunities, and even generate employment for others.  

As you step forward, carry with you the values of our institution. Be exemplary ambassadors, living out the essence of our cherished motto: Adwen, Akoma na Nsa ma Mpuntu— ‘Mind, Heart, and Hands for Development.’ 

Mr Samuel Kweku Damoah topped the graduating class with a 4.93 CGPA