At least 22 artisans trained in various forms of vocational skills in the Talensi and Nabdam districts, received start-up kits and certificates after completing a one-year vocational training at a brief ceremony in Bolgatanga. The training was organized by a local NGO Trax Ghana in partnership with Tools for Self Reliance (TFSR), UK.
The graduates who included young women and men, were trained in various vocational skills such as welding and fabrication, carpentry, seamstress, masonry, shoe making and repairs and auto mechanics
Trax Ghana and TFSR, UK partnership project started in 2007 and was intended to reduce youth unemployment in local communities through skills development training and support that will translate into sustainable jobs, incomes and improved livelihoods.
The project beneficiaries were first taken through a 5-day training in life skills with focus on HIV/AIDS, STIs, reproductive health, nutrition, peer-counselling, drug and alcohol abuse. They were also trained on entrepreneurial skills including business management, marketing, records keeping, costing and pricing and Village Savings and Loans Association (VSLA).
Following the 5-day training, project beneficiaries were attached to well-resourced master craftsperson in various communities for one year intensive vocational training in their area of interest. Present at the presentation ceremony were master craftsperson, graduates, community representatives, Media, Trax Ghana staff and board members.
The director of Trax Ghana, Vincent Subbey admonished the graduates to use the start-up kits judiciously to expand their businesses so as to earn income for improved livelihoods. He also requested from each graduate to recruit at least two apprentices and pass on acquired skills and knowledge in other to create more job opportunities and expand the local economy.
The artisans were grateful to Trax Ghana and TFSR for the immense support extended to them and pledged that the knowledge and skills acquired will be put into good use not only for their benefit but also for the benefit of their local communities.
Trax Ghana 