The Ministry of Education has reiterated that the government remains committed to bridging the gaps confronting technical universities across the country.
Reading a statement on behalf of the sector minister Haruna Iddrisu at the grand durbar of the 25th anniversary celebration of Bolgatanga Technical University, Deputy Education Minister Dr. Clement Apaak acknowledged that over the last two and a half decades, Bolgatanga Technical University has made significant strides in technical education.
He commended the school for its contribution to training thousands of skilled professionals who are actively contributing to industries across Ghana and beyond. The university has become a hub for innovation, equipping students with hands-on experience in fields such as engineering, applied sciences, business, and technology.
Dr. Apaak, in his remarks, said he recognised that through strategic collaborations with international institutions such as the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, USA, and the University of Ouagadougou in Burkina Faso, the university has expanded its academic reach and strengthened its curriculum to meet international standards.
These partnerships, he posited, have provided students with unique opportunities to engage in exchange programs, research collaborations, and specialised training in emerging fields, adding that the school has played a key role in promoting entrepreneurship.
‘’By fostering a culture of innovation and self-reliance, the institution has empowered many young graduates to establish their own businesses, thereby reducing unemployment and contributing to Ghana’s economic growth.’’
Dr. Apaak posited that despite the school’s achievements, it is faced with challenges just as other technical universities across the country, which include infrastructural deficits, funding constraints, and limited access to modern teaching and learning equipment.
He assured that the government will resolve these challenges by increasing investment in technical universities, improving research capacity, and expanding internship and apprenticeship opportunities through strategic partnerships with industries.
will be rolling out a comprehensive Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Transformation Agenda, in the following ways; funding and improving TVET education, enterprise development and job creation, and TVET instructor development. Among others, it is aimed at:
• No-Academic-Fee Policy (No-Fees-Stress Initiative): An amount of GH¢499.8 million has been allocated to cover the no academic fees for all first-year students in public tertiary institutions.
• Enhanced Student Loan Scheme: We will increase accessibility and efficiency of student loan disbursement to ensure that no student drops-out due to financial constraints.
• Improved Campus Infrastructure: We will expand hostels, recreational facilities, and digital libraries to create a conducive learning environment.
• Enhanced Internship and Job Placement Programs: We will establish stronger linkages with industry leaders to facilitate seamless transition from school to employment.
• Mental Health and Counseling Services: Strengthening student support systems to provide guidance, career counseling, and mental health services to students in need will be prioritised.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
