For many years, technical and vocational education and training (TVET) in Ghana was wrongly seen as an option for students who were not academically strong. Sadly, that old perception still exists in some parts of society today. 

On Monday, May 18, 2026, students in technical and vocational schools across the country began their Certificate II examinations, yet many Ghanaians were not even aware that the exams had started.

Publicity about the examinations was very low, and many people still do not know that TVET students do not write the WASSCE like other senior high school students.

If the examinations were for WASSCE or even BECE candidates, the news would have been everywhere. 

Discussions would be on radio, television, and social media platforms. However, thousands of TVET students are currently writing their Certificate II examinations, and there is little national attention.

 This lack of awareness can discourage students who want to pursue technical and vocational careers. As a country, we must recognise that TVET education is one of Ghana’s strongest tools for job creation, wealth generation, and national development.

Despite the low publicity, there is progress in the TVET sector, and the government and school leaders deserve praise for supporting technical and vocational education.

 Many technical schools are now receiving important tools, equipment, and materials to help students with practical training. This support is helping students gain the hands-on skills needed to succeed in different professions and industries.

In the past, students who chose courses such as plumbing, carpentry, electrical engineering, building and construction, hospitality, fashion design, and catering were often looked down upon. 

Many people believed technical education was only for students who were not good in academics. Today, that mindset is changing because students from technical schools are proving their talents through innovation and creativity. 

Some have developed machines for pounding fufu, extracting oil, and solving everyday problems in society.

Ghana needs skilled professionals in every field, not only lawyers, doctors, teachers, and bankers. 

The country also needs trained carpenters, masons, plumbers, caterers, electricians, fashion designers, and technicians. 

Every student has a unique talent and purpose in life. TVET education is like gold, and students choosing that path should be encouraged and supported  to build their potential and contribute to national development.