Students of Nsoatre Technical and Vocational Institute are set to benefit from a major infrastructure boost following the commencement of a GH¢6.5 million ultra-modern Climate Resilient Centre aimed at strengthening technical training and improving youth employability.
The Social Investment Fund officially handed over the project site to TRACEF Construction and Engineering Limited to begin construction of the facility, which is expected to be completed within 12 months.
The centre, being developed under the Rebuilding Youth and Women’s Livelihoods through Entrepreneurship and Employment Creation component of the Post COVID-19 Skills Development and Productivity Enhancement Project, will focus on training students in wood technology, fashion design, and digital skills. It will also be equipped with modern tools to provide hands-on training that aligns with current job market demands.
Speaking at the handover ceremony, MacDonald Acquah said the project forms part of a broader national initiative aimed at rebuilding livelihoods and creating sustainable employment opportunities for young people and women.
He disclosed that similar technical skills centres are also being developed at Otaakrom Technical Institute, Abetifi Technical Institute and St. John’s Vocational Technical School.
The larger project is being funded through a US$28.5 million grant from the African Development Bank under a five-year agreement with the Government of Ghana aimed at supporting post-COVID recovery through job creation, skills development and private sector growth.
Kwasi Asante-Boateng described the project as a major opportunity for the municipality and urged students to take advantage of the improved training environment to build successful careers.
Meanwhile, Alexander Sabi appealed for additional infrastructure support, including improved security, more classrooms, student furniture and streetlights to address challenges facing the growing institution.
The new centre is expected to position Nsoatre as a key hub for practical skills training in the Bono Region while helping to prepare young people for entrepreneurship and employment opportunities.
