By Mildred Siabi-Mensah
Effia (WR) May 26, GNA – President John Dramani Mahama says Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) must no longer be seen as second fiddle institutions but key drivers for national development.
He said applied research and innovation held central place in national agenda shifting from theoretical research to practical solution which formed part of the rebuilding and resetting agenda where knowledge transformed into enterprises and advances to national prosperity.
The President, at the opening of the Fourth Applied Research Conference of Technical Universities in Ghana in Takoradi said, “Technical Universities must thus create the Strategic national platforms to change the country’s future, where successes connected perfectly with education and industry needs.
The five days Conference is under the theme: “Advancing TVET for Innovation, Technology Transfer, and Entrepreneurship for Sustainable Development “.
He said the future of Ghana depended on institutions and their abilities to provide technical skills for industries. Describing the conference as a national platform…”this job goes beyond academics.”
President Mahama said the conversion of polytechnics into Technical Universities 10years ago was not just a reform, but key change driver.
And as we mark 10years of reflections… “let us create new generation of institutions that drive Ghana’s industrialisation agenda…the exhibition and innovative ideas show cased reveals that we are on the right side”.
The President pledged a 10 million support fund as well as dedicated support for doctoral training to drive this critical national goal.
President Mahama announced the creation of a new science university within the savannah region and two new technical universities in Techiman and Jasikan.
On inclusive education, the President promised a 50million annual tertiary fund for persons with disabilities, “every Ghanaian deserves access to quality education”
He said continuous STEM, AI and Robotics education from early childhood to the Tertiary levels was also high on priority to ginger interest among the younger generation.
Ghana, he noted, cannot industrialised without strong institutions and commended the Vice Chancellors for their bold leadership at the institutions level, and the role of researchers, lecturers and students for driving measurable national impact.
He praised Wayoe Engineering limited, a local fabrication company and product of the Takoradi Technical University for demonstrating the practical the benefit of technical education…” this feat reflect and cement the bold decision to convert polytechnic into Technical Universities…today, I am proud of the achievement and we will work hard to improve the infrastructure”.
The President pledged commitment to infrastructure expansion and modern laboratories for practical skills for Ghana’s industrialization and technological advancement.
The President called on education stakeholders to translate dialogue into actions, become institutions capable of positioning Ghana in the global market…”We will create the enabling environment “.
GNA
Edited by Justina Hilda Paaga/Kenneth Odeng Adade
Reporter: Mildred Siabi-Mensah