A new study by the Ghana Employers’ Association (GEA) and Confederation of Danish Industry (DI) calls for urgent policy action to reform Ghana’s boat and shipbuilding skills development. The report indicates that Ghana’s marine sector, crucial for fisheries, trade, and job creation, is hampered by outdated tools and weak formal training systems. This situation prevents the country from fully capitalizing on opportunities within the emerging blue economy.
The study found that Ghana’s boatbuilding workforce largely operates informally. Many artisans gain skills through apprenticeships and traditional knowledge transfer. This informal structure limits employability, productivity, and adherence to safety standards. It also hinders the transition into modern marine manufacturing practices.
This skills gap is significant for Ghana’s economic future. The blue economy, encompassing marine-related activities, is a growing sector globally. Ghana’s inability to train a modern workforce for this sector could mean lost economic growth and job opportunities. The report highlights a disconnect between existing technical and vocational education and training (TVET) programs and the specific needs of the marine industry.
Professor Alexander D.K. Preko and Eugene Abraham, authors of the research, emphasize that Ghana cannot build a competitive blue economy without a properly trained workforce. They state that the current TVET programs are too generic. They do not adequately address specialized areas like composite/fiberglass moulding, marine safety, or digital marine systems. This lack of specialized training directly impacts Ghana's ability to compete in modern marine industries.
The study recommends several key actions to address these challenges. It proposes introducing at least six-month modular short courses in boatbuilding and marine operations. These courses should combine 30 per cent classroom theory with 70 per cent industry attachment. This practical approach aims to equip workers with relevant, hands-on skills. The report also advocates for Recognition of Prior Learning systems. These systems would assess and certify experienced informal workers, converting their practical knowledge into recognized qualifications. This would open pathways to formal employment and entrepreneurship.
Furthermore, the report calls for a national mandate for marine-specific curriculum modules. It suggests creating Marine TVET Innovation Hubs in coastal regions. Investment in modern laboratories and workshops is also crucial. These facilities would provide the necessary infrastructure for advanced training. Upskilling trainers and fostering industry-led curriculum co-creation are also vital steps. These measures ensure that training remains relevant and responsive to industry demands. Public-private partnerships are essential for driving skills development. They can bridge the gap between educational institutions and industry needs.
The research identifies strong demand for skills in composite/fiberglass boat construction, marine welding, and marine electrical systems. Other priority areas include marine mechanics, marine painting, and digital marine systems. This shift reflects a changing sector, moving from traditional wooden canoes to modern materials like fiberglass and aluminum. New training models must blend classroom learning with practical attachments and modern workshop tools. This will ensure Ghana's workforce is prepared for these technological advancements.
The GEA and DI initiative provides crucial evidence for policymakers. It can guide the government, the Commission for Technical and Vocational Educational Training (CTVET), and the Ghana Maritime Authority. The report concludes that Ghana’s boatbuilding sector can drive employment and sustainable industrial growth. This requires policy reforms, practical training, certification, modern infrastructure, and stronger collaboration between industry and training institutions. Addressing these skills gaps is not just an education matter; it is an industrial, employment, and trade agenda for Ghana.