In an effort to provide alternative livelihoods for former illegal miners (galamseyers), The African Freelancers (TAF) College in Accra has launched a program aimed at equipping them with entrepreneurial skills. Currently, the college is training 20 young individuals who previously engaged in illegal mining activities to develop their creative skills in various entrepreneurial fields.
PAY ATTENTION: Western North Region Tops Food Price Charts in Ghana
These 20 students, hailing from communities in the Ellembelle District of the Western Region, are being sponsored by the Anwia Teleku-Bokazo Trust Fund (ATB), a community assistance scheme in the Ellembelle District. They are part of a larger cohort of 110 students, including school dropouts, young single mothers, and unemployed youths, undergoing training in disciplines such as graphic designing, cinematography, music production, digital marketing, cosmetology, fashion design, real estate management, and event management.
Rev. Johnnie Oquaye, the Founder and President of TAF College, emphasized the importance of providing these former galamseyers with skills for alternative livelihoods after their training. Speaking during a float by the students and trainers to mark the college’s first anniversary celebration, Rev. Oquaye highlighted the achievements of the college in its first year, which included graduating 115 students.
In its second year, TAF College is expanding its programs by introducing additional training courses, including the establishment of an Artificial Intelligence Department. This move aims to provide quality training in the burgeoning field of AI, enabling students to seize opportunities in this fast-growing industry.
Rev. Oquaye appealed for more support in terms of funding to complement the assistance received from philanthropists, corporate bodies, and non-profit organizations. He announced the launch of the TAF Club 100, a fundraising initiative aimed at securing 100 donors to sponsor at least 100 students annually. It costs GH¢10,000 to train a student, and the college seeks to expand its capacity to train more students who can become job-creating entrepreneurs.
Acknowledging the support received, Rev. Oquaye expressed gratitude to individual and institutional partners and donors, including the HACSA Foundation, Fidelity Bank, and GLICO Insurance, for their continuous assistance.
YOU CAN’T MISS: Ghana’s Cost of Living Goes Up: Inflation Hits Four-Month High
Mr. Mark Addo, the Chairman of Trustees of the ATB Trust Fund, commended TAF College for its positive impact on transforming marginalized and unemployed youth. He highlighted the fund’s partnership with TAF College, sponsoring 20 students and providing them with accommodation in Accra, along with a monthly allowance to facilitate their training. This collaboration underscores a collective commitment to empowering young people and fostering community development.
Leave a Comment