The Design and Technology Institute (DTI) has graduated over 1,500 Master Craft Persons (MCPs) and Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) owners. This achievement comes from its Precision Quality (PQ) training programme, designed to formalise Ghana's informal sector and enhance its competitiveness.
This significant graduation is part of a broader initiative by DTI, supported by the Mastercard Foundation. The programme equips informal businesses with essential technical, business, and management skills. The goal is to transform Ghana's informal sector, improving product quality and strengthening businesses for sustainable growth.
Ghana's informal sector contributes significantly to the economy but often lacks formal structures and access to finance. Formalising this sector is crucial for the nation's industrial transformation. The informal apprenticeship system remains the largest source of skills development in the country. Empowering master craftspeople with internationally recognised standards can boost employment opportunities for young people. It also raises overall productivity across various sectors.
Constance Elizabeth Swaniker, Founder and President of DTI, stated that the programme goes beyond technical skills. Participants learn business management, workplace safety, customer service, financial management, and digital tools. This comprehensive training positions them better to compete in both local and international markets. She emphasised that formalisation is vital for Ghana's economic progress.
This initiative aligns with Ghana's Human Capital Development Strategy. This strategy aims to formalise the country's apprenticeship system through structured training, certification, and enterprise support. Under the PQ programme, participating master craftspeople must engage apprentices or young employees. This ensures skills transfer to the next generation and expands employment opportunities.
The training has already shown positive impacts on beneficiaries. Graduates reported strengthened technical competencies and improved understanding of bookkeeping, customer relations, and business planning. They expressed confidence that the certification will enhance their business credibility. This will help them attract more customers and expand their operations. The emphasis on business formalisation will also help them access financing and register their businesses.
The Accra graduation certified 1,583 Master Craft Persons and SME owners. DTI plans similar ceremonies in Ho and Kumasi as it expands the programme nationwide. The graduation event also featured testimonies from beneficiaries and discussions on financial inclusion. Business registration and the creation of an MCP Alumni Association were also key topics. This association will provide continued support and networking opportunities for graduates.
This programme represents a strategic investment in Ghana's human capital. By formalising skills and businesses, it aims to create a more robust and competitive economy. The focus on quality and structured training will help informal sector players thrive. This will ultimately contribute to national development and job creation. The ongoing expansion of the programme suggests a sustained commitment to these goals.
The DTI's efforts are critical for unlocking the full potential of Ghana's workforce. Equipping artisans with modern business practices ensures they can meet market demands. This also helps them navigate regulatory environments effectively. The long-term benefits include increased tax revenue and improved economic stability. These outcomes are essential for Ghana's continued growth trajectory.