The Complementary Education Agency (CEA), under its mission of transforming lives through complementary education, has successfully organized a five-day skills training programme for women and men at the Ehi E.P. Church Chapel. The programme, which aimed at promoting self-reliance and reducing unemployment, climaxed on Friday, June 5, 2026.
The event brought together participants from eight districts, including Dzodze, Agbozome, Ehi, Kpando, Ho, Hohoe and surrounding communities.
Among the dignitaries present were Hon. Kwasi Ashiama, Executive Director of CEA Ghana; Mr. Samuel Atsu, Regional Director; Madam Martha Siawu, Divisional Director; Mr. Edward Kumah Deku of Alternative Education (ANF/GES); Madam Halima Koe; Madam Gloria Dei-Tutu; Mr. Noel Danyo; Mr. Edem, Senior Programme Manager; Madam Vida, Hohoe Municipal Director; Mr. Israel Kpodo, Regional Public Relations Officer; and several other officials.
Traditional leaders who graced the occasion included Mama Ahlayi II of Klikor and Torgbui Badi Ahadzi IV of Bedzi-Korpe.
In his remarks, Torgbui Badi Ahadzi IV expressed appreciation to the CEA for selecting Ehi as one of the beneficiary communities. He encouraged participants to make effective use of the skills acquired and not abandon them because of financial challenges. He further pledged to help reorganize participants after the training and seek support from NGOs to assist them in expanding their businesses.
Speaking on behalf of the Ghana Education Service, Mr. Edward Kumah Deku thanked the CEA for its efforts in promoting practical skills development. He appealed to the Agency to extend such programmes into schools, stressing that education should not focus solely on academic knowledge but also on practical and industrial skills. According to him, equipping children with vocational skills from an early age would prepare them for self-employment and national development.
A participant who spoke on behalf of the trainees described the programme as highly educational and beneficial. The participant noted that people travelled from different communities to attend the training and pledged to put the acquired skills into productive use. Appreciation was also extended to the trainers and organizers for their dedication and hard work.
Delivering his keynote address, the Executive Director of CEA Ghana, Hon. Kwasi Ashiama, thanked the traditional authorities, representatives of the Ehi Development Council, representatives of the Member of Parliament, and all stakeholders for their support. He also commended his team for their commitment to the success of the programme.
Hon. Ashiama explained that the training covered the production of washing powder, shower gel, shampoo, and traditional black soap (Alata Samina). He emphasized that the Complementary Education Agency was established by law under the Education Regulatory framework in 2020 and is committed to reducing poverty through practical skills training.
He further stated that the Agency seeks to complement classroom education by promoting practical and vocational learning. He appealed to corporate institutions, development partners, and government agencies to support the Agency’s efforts to expand its programmes nationwide.
The Executive Director disclosed that CEA plans to extend similar training opportunities to inmates in prisons across Ghana to facilitate rehabilitation and economic empowerment. He assured the public that the Agency remains open to requests from groups and communities seeking skills training.
Hon. Ashiama also encouraged participants to explore available microfinance and loan opportunities to help them acquire raw materials and establish businesses. He urged the youth to embrace skills training as a pathway to economic independence rather than spending excessive time on unproductive activities.
Approximately 200 participants from eight districts benefited from the programme. At the end of the training, participants expressed satisfaction with the knowledge and practical skills acquired. Some of the products manufactured during the training were distributed to participants to take home.
The Complementary Education Agency continues to promote its vision of “Education Beyond the Classroom,” empowering Ghanaians with practical skills for sustainable livelihoods.
Reporting for
Denyigba Radio News.
GLI WONDER.