In the heart of the Bosome Freho District in Ashanti, a group of master seamstresses and tailors are spearheading a grassroots effort to tackle youth unemployment and social issues through practical vocational training.
Led by Mrs. Esther Yirenkyiwaa, founder of Estev Fashion and a respected master seamstress, the community of Akronwe has established a local apprenticeship programme aimed at equipping young boys and girls with essential tailoring and fashion design skills. This initiative not only seeks to provide economic opportunities but also to steer youth away from unproductive and harmful behaviors.
“Our young people, especially girls, need viable alternatives to idleness and distractions that threaten their future,” Mrs. Yirenkyiwaa explained. “Through skills training, we are giving them a chance to build a sustainable livelihood.”
However, despite the dedication of the master trainers, the programme faces significant challenges due to limited resources. The lack of sewing machines, accessories, and training materials restricts their ability to reach and properly train more youth. Mrs. Yirenkyiwaa appealed to government bodies, philanthropists, and NGOs to join hands in supporting this vital community project.
The apprentices themselves shared candid insights into their daily struggles. Many young trainees rely on the programme not only for skill development but also for basic sustenance, with some reporting coming to training sessions hungry or without means of transportation. Such hardships sometimes push vulnerable youth into precarious situations as a means of survival.
One apprentice voiced the urgent need for assistance: “Without support for our food and transport, it is difficult to focus on learning. We hope the government and parents can help us.”
The call for increased backing also highlights a cultural challenge. Mrs. Yirenkyiwaa emphasized the need for parents and guardians to value apprenticeship training equally with formal education, urging them to provide equal care and encouragement to children pursuing vocational paths.
“This mindset shift is crucial. Both formal schooling and vocational skills are essential for our community’s development,” she said.
The Akronwe tailoring community is confident that with enhanced support—including provision of equipment, startup tools, and mentorship—they can expand their reach, empower more young people, and ultimately break cycles of poverty and social vulnerability in the region.
This initiative reflects a growing recognition in rural Ghana of the transformative power of vocational education as a tool for youth empowerment and social change.
