Dr. Kyei addressing the participants
The Director General of the Commission of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), Dr. Fred Kyei Asamoah, has disclosed that stereotypes against women in TVET are gradually reducing.
Dr. Kyei made this known at the ‘Women In TVET’ conference, which aims to bridge the gender gap in the male-dominated Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) sectors, empowering young women and fostering a supportive community for their professional growth.
The theme for this year’s Women in TVET conference is “Harnessing Innovation and Technology to Create Opportunities for Women in TVET,” and primarily aims to connect young women pursuing careers in sectors such as energy, extractives, and construction with seasoned technical professionals for mentorship, guidance, and support.
The programme ultimately aims to propel young women to occupy positions and/or creating businesses and job opportunities in sectors that are lucrative and traditionally dominated by men.
Dr. Kyei disclosed that initially, parents did not want their children to enrol in TVET schools, but now the parents themselves call to insist on enrolment.
He added that, according to their baseline studies, 14,000 students enrolled in TVET schools in 2017. This year is 60,000, while last year was 50,000, and this shows that the perception of stereotypes is gradually reducing.
“Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) has a potentially significant role to play in providing the skills and competencies required to support innovation, productivity, and international competitiveness as well as areas of social development, including health and education. It is thus an important driver for achieving a range of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals and contributing to inclusive and sustainable societies,” he added.
He noted that the Women in TVET conference is also being organised to challenge gender stereotypes and increase participation of women in TVET, particularly in male-dominated trades; create awareness for the importance of women’s participation in TVET; showcase successful women in TVET/ in business/successful women entrepreneurs; and encourage government to do more concerning female empowerment in TVET.
BY Daniel Bampoe