Fidelity Bank Ghana, in partnership with German Development Cooperation and the European Union has successfully concluded the Short-Term Skills Training Project for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) in the Ahafo and Bono East regions.

This initiative, part of Fidelity Bank’s Empower ALL program was implemented in collaboration with the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ-Ghana) and provided essential vocational and financial literacy training to over 230 participants, exceeding the initial target of 150, aiming to enhance their employability, business acumen, and financial independence.

The project, a key component of the broader Ghana-Germany Joint Action on Jobs, Migration, and Development (JMD), sought to integrate PwDs into local economies by equipping them with market-relevant skills and access to financial services.

The training, delivered across several communities including Prang, Yeji, Atebubu, Goaso, Hwidiem, and Bechem, combined practical entrepreneurship education with financial literacy, enabling participants to develop sustainable livelihoods.

Speaking on the impact of the initiative, Julian Opuni, Managing Director of Fidelity Bank Ghana, emphasized the bank’s commitment to inclusive development.

“This partnership with GIZ reflects our deep-rooted belief that every Ghanaian, regardless of their physical ability, deserves access to opportunities that can transform their lives and one of the critical ways to achieve this is through financial literacy. The remarkable success of this program reinforces our commitment to driving sustainable financial empowerment through strategic collaborations.”

Fidelity Bank played a critical role in ensuring the success of the program by funding the procurement of training materials and providing logistical support.

Participants received hands-on training in market positioning, business strategy, savings, and budgeting, as well as exposure to inclusive financial products tailored to their needs.

At the end of the program, certificates of completion were awarded to participants, marking a significant milestone in their journey towards economic self-sufficiency.

“Our partnership with Fidelity Bank has been a key step in empowering persons with disabilities through skills development,” said Andreas Berding, Head of the Ghanaian European Centre for Jobs, Migration, and Development.

“By working closely with local stakeholders and tailoring training to individual needs, we are not only equipping participants with practical skills but also enhancing their economic independence. This initiative highlights the power of vocational training and strategic partnerships in driving sustainable development.”

The success of the Short-Term Skills Training Project highlights the power of collaboration in fostering socio-economic inclusion. Looking ahead, Fidelity Bank and GIZ plan to explore ways to scale up the initiative, including follow-up mentorship programs, extended financial education workshops, and deeper engagements with key stakeholders such as the Labour Departments and Business Advisory Centres.

Commenting on the broader impact of the initiative, Nana Yaa Afriyie Ofori-Koree, Head of Partnerships, Sustainability & CSR at Fidelity Bank Ghana, stated, “This initiative is a clear demonstration of how strategic partnerships can drive meaningful change.

Persons with Disabilities often face economic barriers, but through this program, we have provided them with the tools to build sustainable businesses and improve their livelihoods.

The overwhelming response and participation underscore the need for continuous efforts in this space, and we are committed to expanding the program’s reach.”

The Short-Term Skills Training Project for PwDs stands as a shining example of how strategic partnerships can propel inclusive development.

Through the combined efforts of Fidelity Bank, GIZ, and local stakeholders, the program has significantly impacted the lives of PwDs, fostering their confidence and financial independence.