Denchemuoso (Ash), Jan. 26, GNA - A sod-cutting ceremony to construct a hostel, teachers quarters and a computer centre for Denchemuoso Vocational Training Centre within Kumasi Metropolis was held at Denchemuoso on Wednesday.

The German Economic Co-operation and Development, Ghana-German Friendship Association and the community are jointly financing the projects estimated at about two billion cedis.

Mr Fred Blank, a representative of the German Embassy in Ghana who cut the sod, said with the development of the private sector in Ghana, vocational training and creation of skilled workforce had become more crucial.

He pointed out that the emphasis on vocational training was to ensure the creation of more employment opportunities for the youth to enable them contribute meaningfully towards the country's socio-economic development.

Mr Blank said the support was a testimony of the cordial and friendly relationship between Germany and Ghana and was optimistic it would be strengthened for the mutual benefits of both countries. Mr Albert Osei-Owusu, a native of the town and Founder of the centre, said it was established in 1990 to help train the youth to be self-employed.

He said the German Ministry for Economic Co-operation had provided support to the centre with the provision of classrooms, workshops and offices.

Mr Osei-Owusu said a well was being drilled at the centre to ensure adequate provision of water for the students. Mr John Anarfi Amoah, Manager of the centre, said it offered courses in carpentry and joinery, dressmaking and tailoring, batik, tie and dye and soap making.

He noted that the projects on completion would improve enrolment and enhance teaching and learning.

Nana Kwasi Addai, Gyasehene of Atwima-Techiman, commended Mr Osei-Owusu and the German Government for their support to help train more youth in vocational skills.

He pledged to mobilize the people to offer communal labour to ensure the projects were completed on schedule. 26 Jan.06