Africa-Press – Botswana. Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) can foster innovation, employment, social mobility and entrepreneurship, which are key drivers of sustainable economic growth, said Ghana education minister, Mr Haruna Iddrisu.
Speaking on Thursday in Gaborone at the TVET Pitso and Expo, Mr Iddrisu acknowledged the rapidly evolving demands of the modern workforce, stressing that developing relevant human capital is essential for remaining competitive in a global economy.
He pointed out that, despite its importance, TVET has historically faced negative perceptions and limited government investment, challenges that are common across many African nations.
These issues, he said, stem from the high costs of establishing robust vocational systems, public misconceptions about TVET and difficulties in aligning training with industry needs.
Nevertheless, Mr Iddrisu expressed admiration for Botswana’s proactive approach through the Human Resource Development Council, which unites stakeholders to overhaul the country’s TVET system.
“I was particularly impressed by Botswana’s initiatives, demonstrating a strong commitment to reform and innovation,” he said, adding that, “This is vital for creating a future-ready workforce.”
He outlined Ghana’s efforts to transform its education landscape, including the establishment of three new Technical Universities focusing on Digital Engineering, Agricultural Engineering and Applied Healthcare Sciences.
He said these institutions, offering programmes from short courses to bachelor’s degrees, are designed to equip youth with practical skills aligned with industry demands.
Furthermore, reforms have led to the creation of the Ghana TVET Service and the enactment of legislation establishing the Commission for TVET (CTVET), which oversees skills training nationwide.
Mr Iddrisu said the industry-led sector skills bodies have been established to ensure curricula is responsive to labour market needs and aligned with environmental, social and governance principles.
These measures have resulted in a dramatic increase in TVET enrolment, from approximately 42 000 students in 2018 to over 235 000 in 2024, highlighting the growing recognition of vocational training’s role in national development.
The Minister stressed that TVET is no longer a fallback for students perceived as less academically inclined but rather the backbone of industrialisation and job creation. “Our governments are committed to establishing state-of-the-art centres, improving infrastructure, and breaking gender barriers to ensure equal opportunities for all,” he said.
He called for greater support for young women pursuing careers in traditionally male-dominated trades such as welding, electrical work and engineering, while encouraging young men to consider roles in sectors like cosmetology and hairdressing.
Mr Iddrisu urged governments, private sector actors and educational institutions to collaborate in strengthening TVET systems.
“Support from Botswana’s Human Resource Development Council through funding, technical assistance, and partnerships will be key to realising this vision,” he said.
Meanwhile, Assistant Minister for State President Ms Maipelo Mophuting said that the TVET Pitso and expo was more than just about technical education, rather it was about the power to transform a young person from waiting for a job into creating one, and to change families’ futures with practical skills.
She urged Botswana to follow the example of nations like the United States, which rose from economic crises by investing in innovation, infrastructure and skills.
Ms Mophuting described TVET as Botswana’s tool of resilience, a vital engine for youth employment, inclusive growth and sustainable communities.
She further declared her vision of generating 100 millionaires from her constituency through vocational training, property access and a mindset of ownership. She also called on educators, private sector, and development partners to support this crucial journey.
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