Arena of Brains to support schools with vocational training

Arena of brains, a non-governmental organisation, which seeks to support basic schools with vocational training, has donated six computers and accessories and stationary to P. Brains Academy School.

With support from friends in Switzerland, Arena of brains would support 20 schools in Ga South municipality with the requisite learning materials.

Mr Samuel Boateng, Director of Arena of Brains, said as Ghana aspires to join the ranks of the developed nations, there is an increased need for a skilled workforce.

“As the saying goes, a nation without skills cannot develop. We look forward to living in a society with an efficient public transport system, affordable but safe housing, reliable energy supply, and all the trappings that go with development,” he said.

“To achieve this we will need the requisite manpower to make this possible. We need a skilled workforce to maintain our roads, bridges, and railways. Competent engineers and mechanics to service our industries, and skilled garment makers, jewellers and shoe makers to compete globally,” he added.

According to him, a good technical or vocational education, benefits the individual by giving him or her an opportunity to earn a decent wage, and live a dignified life.

It also benefits the family by raising its status in the society, and ultimately benefits the nation by reducing unemployment and increasing the tax base.

Mrs Patience Obeng, Assistance Proprietor of P Brainy Academy, said one of the greatest challenges facing vocational training in Ghana is the low prestige it enjoys from the public.

Trades like auto mechanics, hairdressing, and carpentry are considered to be the preserve of children who do not have the mental ability to pursue a university education, she said.

These trades, she said, are also thought to be better suited for those coming from the bottom rungs of the socio-economic ladder.

She lauded the initiative of Arena of Brains to provide schools with vocational training.