The growth and prosperity of any country are dependent on its industrial development, and Ghana is no exception. In recent years, the country has seen a rise in the number of industries, large and small, contributing to its economy.
However, there is still much to be done to achieve industrial development, and one critical area that requires attention is Technical, Technological, and Vocational Education and Training (TVET).
Despite the Ghanaian government’s efforts to explore alternatives and commit to TVET to achieve necessary growth, it must also invest in effective communication strategies to ensure the success of TVET implementation.
Effective communication strategies are necessary to inform and engage all stakeholders to equip trainees with relevant and marketable skills to secure employment or start their own businesses.
Unfortunately, TVET in Ghana has not received the attention it deserves, leading to a shortage of skilled workers in critical industries.
Although the government has been committed to TVET over the years, such as converting 10 polytechnics into technical universities in line with the Polytechnics Law (Act 745), TVET is still not attractive to most youths due to its low or middle levels of employment.
One critical communication strategy is constant stakeholder engagement. Involving stakeholders, such as students, educators, employers, traditional rulers, and government officials, early in the process gains their support and ensures that the project meets their needs.
Additionally, collaborating with the private sector to develop programs that align with modern industries ensures that students receive training in areas that are in high demand, leading to better job prospects and increased productivity for industries.
Communicating the goals of the TVET projects to potential trainees, beneficiaries, and stakeholders such as employers and community leaders is crucial for project success.
TVET must be communicated as an opportunity for personal and professional growth and a pathway towards economic independence, avoiding jargon or technical terms that may confuse stakeholders.
Different communication channels must be used since different stakeholders have different communication preferences. Regular updates should be provided to keep stakeholders informed of project progress.
Celebrating the success of hardworking individuals who have succeeded in life or their fields is also an essential part of any project. By acknowledging and celebrating achievements, stakeholders feel appreciated and motivated to continue their involvement in the project.
Effective communication strategies are essential for building trust and engagement among stakeholders, which are critical for the success of TVET projects.
It ensures that stakeholders understand the project goals, their roles in the project, and the progress being made, enabling the project to be implemented smoothly and achieve its intended outcomes.
Credit: Dennis Agyei Boateng, Development Communication expert. Email dennisagyei26@gmail.com
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