Ghana Must Work On Tendencies To Underestimate TVET- AAMUSTED VC
The Vice Chancellor of Akenteng Appiah-Minka University of Skills Training and Entrepreneurial Development (AAMUSTED), Prof Frederick Kwaku Sarfo, has called on regulatory bodies and stakeholders to work on tendencies to throw shade on Technical and Vocational Education & Training (TVET).
According to him, TVET is no different or inferior to Sciences, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).
Hinging his strong argument on definition of TVET and intelligence during his investiture on Friday, May 26, he underscored the essence of electricians, plumbers, seamstresses, tailors , mechanics, and caterers to solving societal problems to any nation.
“TVET is a means of preparing for occupational sectors and for effective participation of the world of work and an aspect of life-long learning and preparation for responsible citizens…Quality TVET come from its proper contextualisation to reflect the specific socio-economic requirement of the specific country. Therefore programmes like nursing, communication, music and art etc could be referred as TVET if the country finds it to address its needs.”
“Educational psychologists describe intelligence as global capacity for individuals to behave purposively, think rationally and deal effectively with a problem of his or her own environment. Again intelligence can be defined as abilities that make us creative and innovative.”
He asked, “If you say TVET students are not intelligent, what are you talking about? In line with these definitions, if a person can use his mind or hands to create things to meet societal needs, is that person not considered as intelligent?”
He believes there is no clear difference between STEM and TVET and therefore the country must work against that opinion.
“As a nation, we should work seriously on the tendency to underestimate TVET to STEM.”
He also urged “CTVET and GTVET service and regulatory bodies to contextualise TVET very very well to our needs. That will help to clear the unfortunate situation where some people see TVET as a poorer version of general or traditional education as the preserve for the unintelligent.”
His position was backed by the Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II and the Deputy Minister for Education responsible for TVET, Gifty Twum Ampofo.
“I am convinced today just like 18 years ago that TVET is very important to the development of this nation,” His Majesty stated decrying the motives that TVET students are not intelligent.
“I don’t see a difference between TVET and STEM,” the Minister pointed.
