Skills for Her: Opening Doors to Inclusive TVET for Women in Ghana

When Keziah first stepped into the welding shop, she faced more than just the challenge of mastering a demanding trade—she was breaking into a space where women were almost never seen. Within months, she excelled in her internship and earned a position at Sun Power Innovations as their first woman technician.

Across Ghana, women like Keziah have the skills and determination to thrive in high-growth, male-dominated industries. But cultural norms, unequal access to training, and workplaces that are not designed for their needs have kept them out of these fields.

The Innovation in Non-traditional Vocational Education and Skills Training (INVEST) project, funded by Global Affairs Canada, set out to change this reality—helping women build technical expertise, secure quality employment, and shape more inclusive work environments.

By the Numbers: Transforming Women’s Futures in Ghana

• 1,143 women have been awarded INVEST in Her scholarships for training in computer programming, welding and fabrication, electrical and solar installation, automotive engineering and heavy-duty machinery operation.

• 517 women have been connected to internships and apprenticeships—gaining experience that led to jobs, leadership roles, and business ownership.

• 27 women entrepreneurs have launched or grown businesses in men-dominated sectors with technical assistance, business coaching, and start-up capital.

Breaking Barriers, Building Pathways

At the heart of INVEST is a commitment to reimagine who belongs in TVET—and to prove that, with the right support, young women can excel in high-growth sectors like ICT, engineering, construction, and renewable energy.

Through the INVEST in Her Scholarship, delivered in partnership with the Ghana Chamber of Construction Industry, the project supported 1,143 young women in accessing training in traditionally male-dominated fields. 

But this initiative went beyond the classroom. 

Keziah’s journey reflects the program’s impact.

Keziah’s Story: From Student to Skilled Technician

Keziah received her training from Anointed Technical Institute in Accra and began an internship with Sun Power Innovations. Within three months, she stood out—so much so that she was offered a full-time position.

Keziah’s story is one of many that show what happens when women are supported not only with technical training, but also with the belief and opportunity to thrive in spaces from which they were once excluded.

Fostering Women-Led Innovation

INVEST didn’t just train women for jobs—it nurtured their potential as entrepreneurs. Through the Women in TVET Business Competition, the project supported young women in launching or growing businesses in traditionally male-dominated sectors.

Across Accra, Kumasi, and Sekondi-Takoradi, 27 women entrepreneurs received technical assistance, business development coaching, and start-up capital. These women are now running successful enterprises that are creating jobs, shifting perceptions, and inspiring others.

Angela’s Story: Growing a Business, Creating Opportunity

Angela Serwaah Baffour, founder of LampsAng Enterprise, was one of four national finalists. With INVEST’s support, she increased her production capacity by over 60%, expanded to a larger facility, and hired more staff.

Today, Angela mentors aspiring women in shoemaking and has plans to open a training institute for sustainable footwear production.

“This support has helped me dream bigger and create opportunities for others like me.”

Changing the System from Within

True transformation goes beyond individuals—it requires shifts in systems, institutions, and workplace culture.

INVEST worked with employers, industry groups, and training institutions to foster inclusive environments. Partners like Kwansa Motors and Ayertey Ghana Limited adopted new gender-inclusive policies, implemented sexual harassment protocols, and created safer spaces for women to work and thrive. 

At Kwansa Motors, new changing and washroom facilities, along with a nursery for nursing mothers, have made it easier for women to stay and thrive in their roles. Several women graduates from INVEST are now employed there—including their first woman Costa Bus repairer—helping shift perceptions about what women can do in the automotive industry.

Building on Momentum

INVEST’s legacy is not only in the women it has trained and supported but also in the systems it has helped to transform. The work continues through our new EMPLOY project, which will scale proven approaches, strengthen institutions, and open more doors for women in TVET and beyond.

When women gain the skills, opportunities, and workplace support they need, they don’t just join the workforce—they change it for the better.