Skills Training Empowers Ghanaian Persons with Disabilities
Fidelity Bank and GIZ's initiative opens doors for economic empowerment through vocational skills training for PwDs in Ghana's Ahafo and Bono East regions.
In an inspiring move, Fidelity Bank Ghana, in collaboration with German Development Cooperation (GIZ) and the European Union, has beautifully woven a tapestry of opportunities through the Short-Term Skills Training Project for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) in Ghana’s Ahafo and Bono East regions. This noteworthy initiative, as part of Fidelity Bank’s Empower ALL programme, is creating ripples of positive change, breathing life into dreams of economic self-sufficiency.
Empowering the Unseen
The training initiative surpassed expectations by providing essential vocational and financial literacy training to over 230 eager participants, far exceeding the initial target of 150. It’s a clear testament to the enthusiasm and potential that lie within these communities. By equipping PwDs with market-relevant skills and a firm grounding in financial literacy, the project aims to seamlessly integrate them into local economies. According to The Business & Financial Times, such initiatives are pivotal in fostering proactive socio-economic inclusion.
A Strategic Collaboration
A significant component of the broader Ghana-Germany Joint Action on Jobs, Migration, and Development (JMD), the program stretches its ambit across vibrant communities like Prang, Yeji, and Bechem. By delivering pragmatic entrepreneurship education coupled with financial literacy, participants are empowered to build sustainable livelihoods.
Banking on Belief and Commitment
Julian Opuni, Managing Director of Fidelity Bank Ghana, passionately articulated the bank’s commitment to inclusive development. “Every Ghanaian, irrespective of physical ability, deserves opportunities that can transform their lives. Financial literacy is the keystone to this transformation,” he conveyed passionately.
Bridging Barriers
Fidelity Bank’s pivotal role in the program underscores a strategic push towards socio-economic empowerment. Not only did they fund training materials, but they also provided critical logistical support. Participants were introduced to the intricacies of market positioning, business strategy, savings, budgeting, and inclusive financial products tailored to their needs.
Celebrating Milestones
The ceremonial awarding of completion certificates was a proud moment, symbolizing a significant milestone on each participant’s journey towards economic empowerment. “Our collaboration with Fidelity Bank is a beacon of hope, illuminating paths towards greater economic independence for PwDs,” noted Andreas Berding, Head of the Ghanaian European Centre for Jobs, Migration, and Development.
Future Horizons
With plans to scale up the initiative, Fidelity Bank and GIZ aim to carve a broader path through follow-up mentorship programs, extended financial education workshops, and enriched engagements with stakeholders like the Labour Departments.
This entire initiative not only exemplifies the power of strategic partnerships but also highlights a dynamic approach to overcoming economic barriers for persons with disabilities. Together, Fidelity Bank and GIZ continue to sow the seeds of change, nurturing the growth of a society where inclusivity is the norm, and barriers are but a memory.
