UN Human Security Trust Fund spends $1.7m

The United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR), in collaboration with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and the Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO), has facilitated 383 trainees to graduate from the National Vocational Training Institute (NVTI).

The project, which is part of the United Nations Human Security Trust Fund and sponsored by the Japanese Government costs $1,700,000 over a two-year period, and targets both refugees and the host community.

The 389 trainees included 20% Ghanaians, who have had a six-month competency-based training in various skills including Baking, block laying/masonry, electrical installation, draughtsmanship, carpentry, soap science, batik tie & dye, dressmaking, beauty care and Information Communication Technology.

The National Project Coordinator of UNIDO, Mr. Kwame Asante, at the graduation ceremony, stated that the project started with 530 eligible and registered beneficiaries, out of which 428 trainees successfully completed the programme.

He said 81% achieved the retention rate, and 389 sat for the NVTI examinations, and are ready for the grade 11 Proficiency Certificate.

He further assured UNIDO's commitment to all partnerships during and after the implementation of the project in Ghana.

He mentioned that presently 675 refugees and the host community members had enrolled and started training in the above skills at Buduburam.