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Ghana

Enhancing Women’s Skills in Ghana

Women have equal rights under the Constitution of Ghana. The reality is there are disparities in education, employment, and health for women. Our project in Ghana strives to bridge this gap through a range of educational opportunities, as we work towards the goals of SDG 5 Gender Equity.  

Our projects are all based on the identified needs of women in Accra. We engage the women in the planning and development process. Let’s take a look at some of the projects that have already had an impact. They are all projects we aim to continue.

 

Supporting Computer Literacy

Computing skills are high on the list when we talk to the local women about where they need support. Computer literacy increases employability. It allows women to access information. In the context of the workshops, women also build an awareness of e-safety.  

Computer training allows women to learn a range of skills relevant to the workplace and daily lives. In 2019 we held 716 individual workshops for women and 54 women achieved a certificate after completing an ICT skills course.

We have a small number of computers for our workshops, and plan to increase the number of computers available to women. This will allow more women to attend.

 

Developing First Aid Skills

We regularly run first aid (Emergency First Response) workshops. Individuals armed with a knowledge of First Aid can be confident when faced with a situation requiring support.  

Teachers, parents, and other individuals have been participants in our workshops. We cover CPR as well as secondary care ranging from dealing with breaks and sprains to managing bleeding. We cover all the usual First Aid skills that standard courses offer.  

Learning skills is one thing, but another part of First Aid is ensuring there are plenty of resources to manage first aid situations. We therefore can support organizations to manage their resources and where necessary support the development of first aid kits.

 

Enhancing Creativity

Catering, jewelry making, and organic soap production are only some of the skills that local Ghanian women are keen to pass on to others. Our workshop space is a meeting place for these sessions.  

Local experts gain valuable experience in leading sessions and passing on their skills. It also has the potential for income for these locals.

Women also have the chance to attend workshops and develop their skills in a range of areas. These sessions lead to skills development and even potential for income generation. They also serve as a meaningful social outlet for participants.

The time table for these creative sessions provides maximum flexibility through ‘walk-in’ sessions for the women in recognition of their busy lives, where they are often juggling childcare and work.

Computing, first aid, and crafts are only some of the sessions in our women’s education project. Learning English, health workshops and a range of vocational skills sessions also make up our program. The key is that our projects strive to build confidence and skills in women. This can lead to work opportunities and also provides opportunities for social interaction which is important for wellbeing.