The Minister of State, Tertiary Education, Prof. Kwesi Yankah says skills development in vocational and technical training is what will transform Ghana’s economy and drastically reduce unemployment in the country.

He said science and technical education is key on government’s agenda as one single most important academic discipline, which this country should mainstream in its educational agenda, if the country should make any headway in job creation and the transformation of Ghana’s economy.

Prof. Yankah who made the assertion at the 9th congregation of St. John BOSCO’s College of Education in Navrongo of the Upper East Region revealed that government intends to expand technical and vocational opportunities at both secondary and tertiary levels and thereby strengthen the linkages between education and industry.

He said the move will give opportunities to the young ones to deploy their skills and employ themselves and others.

Prof. Yankah charged the graduands to accept postings to deprived communities in the country.

The Upper East Regional Minister, Rockson Bukari, said over 54, 000 students admitted into the country’s colleges of education last year are enjoying restored allowances.

He said teachers all over the country are currently enjoying Free Compulsory Universal Basic Education, FCUBE, through the increment in Capitation Grant.

The regional Minister reminded the graduands that the stakes are high for them to deepen quality basic education.

Mr. Bukari challenged them to be determined and dedicated to their chosen profession and makes a difference wherever they find themselves.

He noted that his outfit will see to it that all the uncompleted projects in the school are completed by the end of this year.

Mr. Bukari appealed to Navro-Pio to help find a lasting solution to the longstanding land litigation challenge in the school which is affecting teaching and learning.

Robert Batuuro who emerged as the overall best student said ICT drives the world globally but the school is however, hindered with inadequate computers in the ICT centre and without reliable internet connectivity. He appealed to the government through the Ministry of Education to as a matter of urgency come to their aid.

Mr. Batuuro noted that now that the school is becoming a fully-fledged University College of Education, they need more infrastructures such as an ultramodern administration block, improved hostel facilities, well-equipped ICT and science laboratories as well as enhanced technical and vocational tools and equipment.

He was optimistic that government will respond appropriately and timely in meeting the needs of the college to enable them execute their duties as expected.