PICTURES: GNPC Foundation Boosts 315 Artisans in Ashanti Region2 min read
The Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC) Foundation is making a powerful impact on community development by empowering artisans in the Ashanti Region.
This initiative focuses on skill enhancement, entrepreneurship, and economic growth, providing essential support to local craftspeople and invigorating Ghana’s economy.
At an event held on October 22 in Oforikrom, Kumasi, the Principal Media Officer for GNPC Foundation, Moses Antwi Benefo Esq. speaking to mytimefm.com shared that the Foundation is shifting its focus from the formal sector to support the informal sector.
He emphasized that not everyone has access to formal education, and it’s crucial to empower those with informal training.
“This initiative, now in its second phase, aims to assist 2,135 artisans across 12 regions by providing them with essential startup tools to launch their businesses.
He mentioned that Ashanti Region accounts for 315 of the 2,135 artisans.
Selection of beneficiaries will be based on recommendations from the National Vocational Training Institute (NVTI), ensuring that those chosen meet the necessary qualifications,” he said.
Mr. Antwi Benefo Esq. expressed hope that all selected artisans will pass the NVTI exams to receive their tools.
He reassured attendees that the GNPC Foundation’s process is transparent and fair, encouraging artisans to meet NVTI requirements to benefit from the program.
He revealed that, the training will cover 22 disciplines, including dressmaking, tiling, masonry, aluminum fabrication, etc.
Mr. Antwi Benefo Esq. said the program is aimed at equipping participants with practical skills for livelihood empowerment.
He made a disclosure that, the Foundation has set a vision to empower 10,000 Ghanaians by 2030.
Madam Diana Adjei, Chief Executive Officer of Aseda Foundation, a partner in this initiative, highlighted the importance of vocational training.
Madam Diana Adjei noted that the narrative around informal education has changed, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic, which affected formal sector jobs while the informal sector remained resilient.
She called on Ghanaians to support informal education as a cornerstone of economic growth.
Beneficiaries expressed gratitude towards the GNPC Foundation, noting that this initiative will provide them the financial support they need to pursue their artisan skills.
