The Minister for Labour, Jobs and Employment has welcomed a delegation from the German organization BFW, Dominion Leaders Foundation (DFL), and Rehoboth Education Trust of Ghana (RETOG), during a courtesy call aimed at strengthening collaboration in technical and vocational education and youth employment.
The meeting, held at the Ministry, served as a platform for the delegation to present updates on ongoing initiatives and explore areas of partnership with the government. The Minister expressed appreciation for their visit and reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to promoting decent work and fostering harmonious labour relations across the country.
BFW, a key player in technical and vocational training in Ghana, shared progress on its ongoing BFW-Partner Africa Project. Implemented in partnership with the Ghana TVET Service and funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) through Sequa, the project aims to upgrade the skills of TVET trainers, artisans, and master craftsmen to meet global industry standards. The project, which began in October 2021, is set to conclude in December 2024.
A significant milestone under the initiative has been the establishment of a construction bay to serve as a practical training site. While initial efforts targeted student development, BFW is now broadening its scope to engage artisans and industry professionals.
The delegation also highlighted a training opportunity in Germany designed to either equip participants for direct employment or enable them to return with enhanced skills to support their home communities. While participants receive stipends during the training, BFW noted that it currently lacks the resources to sponsor Ghanaian students for this overseas program. However, interested individuals are encouraged to register at designated centres to be considered for future opportunities.
RETOG, an NGO focused on youth employment through partnerships with technical and vocational institutions, was also featured in the discussions. The organization offers both on-site and online learning modules, including Human Resource Management. Mr. Fiati, Deputy Chairman of RETOG, and Madam Marta Anang, a consultant for both BFW and DFL, were part of the visiting team.
The delegation appealed for the Ministry’s support in facilitating the training initiatives and the formation of a technical committee to guide policy development and implementation.
In his response, the Hon. Minister commended their work and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to equipping Ghanaian youth with relevant skills for local and international employment. He emphasized the importance of the two key components of their proposal training and job placements in Germany, and the reintegration of trained individuals into the Ghanaian workforce.
The Minister requested a detailed proposal outlining their support needs, particularly on how to promote language training among prospective trainees. He assured the team of the Ministry’s willingness to review the proposal and consider ways to collaborate effectively.
A follow-up program is scheduled for July 26, during which further engagement and policy dialogue are expected.
