Gender Ministry calls for greater industry support for women in TVET

The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection in Ghana has urged industries to provide more support for women seeking careers in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET). Dr Faustina Acheampong, Director of the Ministry, delivered this message at the fifth Women in TVET Conference in Accra. The conference, organized by the Commission for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (CTVET), aimed to promote greater female participation in TVET and create pathways linking skills training to employment, entrepreneurship, and leadership.

The Minister emphasized the importance of women acquiring practical, market-relevant skills and having clear routes into employment and leadership positions. She highlighted that expanding women's presence in traditionally male-dominated fields could enhance Ghana's workforce diversity and inclusivity. Addressing the barriers that hinder women's progress in TVET, the Minister stressed the need to overcome structural obstacles that prevent women from completing training, entering industries, and advancing in their careers.

The Ministry's call for stronger industry support aligns with Ghana's broader gender agenda, including the Revised National Gender Policy 2025–2034 and the Affirmative Action (Gender Equity) Act, 2024 (Act 1121). These policies aim to eliminate gender disparities and promote women's participation in decision-making processes. Dr Acheampong urged young women to pursue TVET with ambition, networking, technological skills, and practical opportunities to apply their knowledge.

She encouraged them not to be confined by traditional gender roles that dictate certain careers as exclusively male or female.

The Minister commended CTVET for organizing the Women in TVET Conference as a vital platform to unite women in TVET, industry leaders, policymakers, educators, and development partners. This conference is part of ongoing efforts to boost women's participation in TVET and establish connections between skills training, employment, entrepreneurship, and leadership opportunities. The ultimate goal is to create a Ghana where women and men have equal opportunities to contribute to national development.