By Daniel Akwasi Nuako
Otaakrom (Ash), May 21, GNA – Mr Issahak Ibrahim, the Atwima Mponua District Chief Executive (DCE), in the Ashanti Region, has cut sod for infrastructural expansion project at Otaakrom Technical Institute (O.T.I).
The GHS7.5 million project formed part of the government’s commitment to upgrade Technical, and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions in the country.
The facility, which is being constructed by FAPIM Construction Limited, would comprise a state-of-the-art administration block, classrooms, workshops, and dormitories, and furnished with modern tools and equipment.
Speaking at the sod cutting ceremony at the forecourt of the school, Mr Ibrahim said the commencement of the project would give a face-lift to the school and promote technical and vocational training in the district.
He praised the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Social Investment Fund (SIF) and the management of the school for their key roles in getting Otaakrom Technical Institute selected as one of four schools nationwide for the TVET project.
Mr Abass Nurudeen, the CEO of the SIF, said the project formed part of a $28.5 million post-COVID-19 Skills Development and Productivity Programme.
He said the initiative, funded by the Ministry of Finance in partnership with the African Development Bank (AfDB), and the OPEC Fund for International Development, aimed to provide TVET schools with improved infrastructure.
He explained the importance of TVET education as the modern path for countries seeking to provide jobs for their growing population of unemployed youth.
According to him, the era of underdeveloped TVET institutions was now a thing of the past.
Mr Nurudeen was optimistic that the new facility would boost students’ confidence and make TVET schools a more attractive option for students.
He commended the chief of the area and his people for providing the government with land for the project to be built.
Mr Samuel Akrasi, the Headmaster of Otaakrom Technical Institute, thanked Mr Nurudeen and the DCE for their collaborative efforts in selecting the school for the project.
He pledged to provide the contractor with the necessary support to complete the project on time.
He also appealed to the contractor to engage students in masonry and carpentry so they could benefit from their practical experience.
GNA
Edited by Justina Hilda Paaga/Benjamin Mensah
Reporter Daniel Akwesi Nuako