The Executive Secretary of the Gold Fields Ghana Foundation, Abdel Razak Yakubu, has urged graduates of the foundation's Community Apprenticeship Programme to make full use of the skills and tools provided to them for personal and community development.

At the graduation ceremony for 33 trainees in Bompieso, Mr. Yakubu expressed concerns over past instances where beneficiaries failed to utilise their startup tools.

He cited cases where equipment such as sewing and knitting machines had to be reclaimed due to non-use.

“Last year, we repossessed two sewing machines and knitting machines from beneficiaries who, eight months after receiving them, had not put them to use or provided valid explanations. We intend to reallocate such tools to those who demonstrate a commitment to utilizing them,” he stated.

Supporting Sustainable Livelihoods

The two-year apprenticeship program, a collaboration with the Garages Association under Mr. Abu and the National Vocational Training Institute (NVTI), trained 48 participants, with 33 successfully graduating. The initiative was complemented by entrepreneurship training from the Business Advisory Unit of the Municipal Assembly, which included lessons in bookkeeping and accessing financial support.

Mr. Yakubu highlighted the foundation's significant investment in the program, saying, “We have committed hundreds of thousands of cedis to provide startup tools for these graduates. The goal is to empower them to start their businesses and contribute to reducing unemployment in our communities.”

Call for Longer Training Duration

The Obaahema of Bompieso, Abena Kunantwiwa, commended the foundation's efforts but called for an extension of the training period.

“The two years of training are not sufficient for most trainees to master their skills. We request that the program be extended to three or four years to ensure the children gain thorough expertise,” she appealed.

Advocating for TVET

Madam Ivy Yeboah, Western and Western North Regional Coordinator of TVET, emphasised the importance of technical and vocational education in addressing unemployment and poverty.

“Technical skills, such as electrical work, can transform the lives of individuals and their communities. Graduates can become contributors rather than dependents. We must encourage more youth to pursue technical fields or even agriculture instead of engaging in illegal mining activities,” she said.

Madam Yeboah praised Gold Fields Ghana Foundation for their impactful initiative and urged other organizations to adopt similar programs to promote technical education and skills development.

The ceremony reinforced Gold Fields’ commitment to sustainable development in their host communities, fostering self-reliance and economic empowerment among the youth.