Kayayei Undergo Vocational Training in Tamale

Twelve Accra-based Kayeyei (porters) whoundertook apprenticeship in Tamale, under the Presbyterian Farmers' Training and Child Development Programme (PFT-CDP), have passed out after a three-year vocational training course. Each of the trainees was provided with a sewing machines and accessories while others received tools in carpentry, building and construction and certificates to start their own businesses. Mr Daniel Nortei Nortey, Manager of the Tamale Vocational Training Institute said the apprenticeship training attracted the total cost of GH¢3, 786.00. He called on the government to give adequate training to the youth to acquire middle level manpower skills to propel the industrial wheels of thecountry. Mr Nortey said such an intervention would be the surest way to alleviate poverty and its related social vices and facilitate the better Ghana Agenda. He appealed to public-spirited individuals and organisations to support the institute to carry out such training programmes to assist the youth in acquiring skills. Mr Abanga Edward, Programme Officer of PFT-CDP noted that child deprivation leads to poverty, violence, exploitation, abuse and other vulnerabilities. Mr Kofi Annan, Centre Manager of the Vocational Institute said the centre, which was set up in 1974 had so far trained more than 2,000 people to acquire employable skills.