USTED’s Maiden Global Conference Champions TVET and Skills-Led Development for Ghana’s Economic Future

The University of Skills Training and Entrepreneurial Development (USTED) has officially launched its inaugural International Conference on Education and Humanities, signaling a major push toward skills-led national development. Held under the theme "Building Sustainable Futures: The Role of Education, Humanities and TVET," the conference brought together a diverse group of scholars, policymakers, and traditional leaders to address the critical gaps in Ghana’s current educational framework. The event, which commenced on May 27, 2026, serves as a platform to advocate for a shift from theoretical instruction toward practical, technical, and vocational expertise.

Speaking at the conference, Apostle Dr. Nana Gyamfi Kumanin Kese, the Development Chief of Nyankyerenease, made a passionate plea for increased investment in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) as a primary solution to youth unemployment. He argued that despite its immense potential for job creation, TVET remains significantly under-prioritized in the national discourse. Dr. Kese called on traditional leaders to use their community influence to change the long-standing negative perceptions of technical education, urging a unified front between the government and industry stakeholders to empower the youth through hands-on skills.

Adding to the calls for educational reform, keynote speaker Mr. Anis Haffar emphasized that the path to national progress lies in prioritizing practical training over purely academic theory. Professor Faith Ben-Daniels further elaborated on the conference’s objectives, highlighting the importance of bridging the gap between TVET and the humanities to create well-rounded professionals capable of driving economic growth. The experts collectively agreed that a curriculum centered on entrepreneurship and technical competence is essential for navigating the challenges of the modern global economy.

The consensus among participants was that the transformation of Ghana’s economy depends on a robust educational system that aligns with industry needs. By fostering collaboration between educators and industry leaders, the conference aimed to establish a roadmap for sustainable human development. As the maiden event concludes, the focus shifts toward implementing these practical strategies to ensure that the next generation of Ghanaians is equipped with the tangible skills required to compete and thrive in a rapidly changing job market.