The Director and Founder of the ERIJAM Institute of Floral Design and Culinary Art, Mariam Jemima Akua Adzroe has lamented the negative implications of the implementation of free Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programme on private TVET institutions.

According to her, the introduction of the programme aimed to whip up interest in TVET and churn out skilled professionals has led to a decline in enrolment in private TVET institutions resulting in financial strain.

Speaking at the 16th graduation ceremony of ERIJEM in Ho, she echoed the imminent closure of the affected institutions due to the government policy.

“We still have to face free government vocational and technical school challenges as a private institution, which is affecting our enrollment. Low enrollment affects our income and expenditure. It makes it difficult to pay salaries and wages and fulfil tax obligations ranging from Internal Revenue Corporate Tax to payee, Council tax, and Environmental Tax. Our existence as a private organization is threatened if our numbers continue to drop as an institution.”

Madam Adzroe emphasized the critical role private vocational institutions play in training industry-ready professionals and, hence, called on policymakers to recognize this and provide strategic support to ensure their survival.

“Private institutions like ours are uniquely positioned to provide cutting-edge, tailored education that meets industry demands. However, without targeted policies to address our challenges, our sustainability remains uncertain," she noted.

Despite the hurdles, Madam Adzroe expressed optimism about the future, particularly under a new administration.

“I am absolutely sure that the incoming government has plans for private vocational schools that will benefit us. Therefore, as we look ahead, we remain steadfast in our mission to provide cutting-edge training and education,” she stated.

The Volta Regional Director of Education, Francis Yao Agbemadi highlighted Erijam’s contributions to making the Volta Region a hub of producing skilled professionals over the past 14 years.

He said, “For 14 years, our region has stood as a beacon of creativity, craftsmanship, and professionalism, nurturing talents that bring joy, connection, and beauty into the world.”

He urged the graduates to embrace adaptability, creativity, and commitment to lifelong learning to ensure success in their endeavors.

“Excellence must be your compass. Outdo others, think creatively and apply competitive advantage. Focus on unique skills, customer care, AI-driven designs, and a commitment to lifelong learning”, he added.

He entreated the citizenry to do away with misconceptions about vocational training and embrace TVET, due to its significant contribution to human and physical development.

“Gone are the days when it was said that those who are not good academically go into TVET. Today, it is widely accepted that those who are capable pursue this field”, he explained.

He emphasized the need for continuous learning and adaptation in a rapidly changing world and challenged the graduates to see obstacles as opportunities.

“Be bold, creative, and original. Aristotle wisely said, ‘We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act but a habit.’ Let this be your habit of excellence as you carry forward the values of discipline, creativity, and excellence instilled in you at ERIJAM,” he concluded.