The Ghana Grows Program is reinforcing its commitment to transforming mindsets and positioning agriculture and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) as viable career and entrepreneurial paths for Ghanaian youth.
Speaking on A1 Radio, the Communications Consultant for Ghana Grows, Jesse Agyepong, emphasized that the program aims to address widespread misconceptions surrounding agriculture and vocational careers. He added that the initiative is particularly focused on changing the narrative to show that these sectors are not only sustainable but also offer meaningful opportunities for self-employment and economic development.
According to him, one of the flagship components of the program—Empower 360—was developed to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. It provides hands-on training designed to connect young people with the tools, mentors, and resources they need to thrive.
“Throughout the period, we realized that, one: it’s not enough just to train people; two: it’s not enough just to motivate people; and three: it’s not enough just to inspire people. We also realized that practical training is extremely important, especially in the field we are in today. So, we developed the Empower 360 program to help address the gap between the theory and actual practice,” he explained.
Empower 360 pays special attention to young women and Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), who are often marginalized in economic development programs.
“Empower 360 is focused on training and equipping young women, particularly persons with disabilities, with the skills they need,” he said.
He further noted that the initiative ensures participants are not only trained but also provided with the necessary tools to start their own ventures immediately after the training—addressing a major challenge many face: the lack of start-up capital.
Youth-led organizations also play a pivotal role in the program’s outreach efforts. These groups, with their strong grasp of peer-to-peer communication, help extend the program’s impact by training other young people within their communities. Mr. Agyepong stressed that this model ensures widespread reach and sustainability, with each youth-led group serving as a hub of transformation within its region.
“Youth-led organizations are very important for us, especially at a time like this when information dissemination is key. Youth-centered businesses have a much stronger appreciation of how to communicate with other young people, so we’re happy to be partnering with them.”
He encouraged all Ghanaians—especially the youth—to consider agriculture and TVET not just as alternatives, but as strategic paths to financial independence and national economic growth. He urged interested individuals to connect with the program to take part in its various empowerment initiatives.
“TVET is a viable option for careers and economic growth. Agriculture is a viable option for careers and economic growth. We want to encourage every Ghanaian out there to take advantage of it,” he said.
Source: A1Radioonline.com|101.1Mhz|Gifty Eyram Kudiabor|Bolgatanga
