By Jibril Abdul Mumuni
Accra, Oct. 14, GNA – Stakeholders have called on the government to prioritise policies that promote girls’ participation in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET).
They observed that there was a significant lack of gender equality in the government’s TVET initiatives.
The stakeholders made the appeal during a commemorative durbar for the International Day of the Girl at the Ada Technical Institute in the Greater Accra Region.
The durbar was to encourage girls’ participation in TVET and to challenge longstanding cultural narratives, stereotypes, and biases.
The event featured various activities, including street processions by boys and girls from second-cycle and Junior High Schools to raise awareness about TVET for girls.
Dr. Eric Nkansah, Director General of the Ghana Education Service (GES), stated that despite advancements in the TVET sector in Ghana, considerable barriers still exist that restrict girls from fully engaging in TVET education.
He highlighted that socio-cultural misconceptions, gender stereotypes, and limited access to resources continue to impede girls and their opportunities.
Dr. Nkansah stressed the importance of collective efforts among stakeholders to challenge negative norms and foster an environment where girls can pursue their aspirations free from discrimination.
“As we celebrate International Day of the Girl 2024, let us reaffirm our commitment to promoting gender equality and empowering our girls through education and skills development.
“I therefore call upon all stakeholders gathered, especially parents, teachers, community leaders, and policymakers, to join hands in creating a supportive and inclusive environment for our girls, “he said.
Dr. Nkansah urged that TVET should not be perceived as solely for boys and men, but rather as a viable and valuable option for girls too.
The technical and vocational education landscape in Ghana is characterised by a marked gender disparity, with boys significantly outnumbering girls in participation and interest in TVET programmes at the secondary education level.
According to a 2020 Ghana Education Service (GES) report on TVET, only 35 per cent of TVET students are female, compared to 65 per cent male.
This translates to approximately 3.5 girls for every 10 students in TVET programmes, highlighting the notable male dominance in the sector.
Mrs. Sarah Dugbakle Pobee, District Chief Executive (DCE) of the Ada East District Assembly, stated that girls in her district and beyond have the potential to overcome the barriers that limit their participation in TVET education.
She encouraged the girls to enhance their advocacy efforts by “raising their voices” to demand justice and equal access to TVET education.
Mr. Gabriel Quarshie, Project Manager at the British Council, expressed his organisation’s commitment to inclusive education in Ghana.
He emphasised that the Council was open to collaborating with donors and other key partners to further promote inclusive education in the country.
GNA