The inaugural Precision Quality (PQ) Internship Programme has successfully graduated 253 youth at the Dabokpa Technical and Vocational Institute. Unlike traditional
academic tracks, this model prioritizes hands-on application and industry discipline.
The ceremony in Tamale celebrated a shift toward "learning to earning." Already, a significant 58% of the cohort has moved directly into employment or enterprise roles.
Rapid Employment & Industry Placement
The impact of the program is already visible across Ghana’s Northern sector. Of the 253 graduates, 149 have secured immediate placements in:
-
Hospitality: Rotations at Nim Avenue and Radach Hotels.
-
Fashion: Mass production exposure at North Shore Apparel.
-
Technical: Welding, fabrication, and software development.
-
Security: Several participants have become eligible for military recruitment.
Precision Quality: Beyond Theory
According to Ms. Bernice Gavor, General Manager of Accents & Art Ltd., the PQ model focuses on creating value. Interns didn't just study; they produced functional goods for the school and local market:
-
Welding: Fabricated trusses, coal pots, and furniture for the institute.
-
Fashion: Produced school uniforms and complex apparel.
-
Tech: Developed functional websites and digital tools.
-
Support: Outstanding students received starter kits and seed capital to launch their own businesses.
Closing the Skills Gap
Ghana’s labor market sees 500,000 new entrants annually, yet many lack practical skills. With nearly two million youth currently "Not in Employment, Education or Training" (NEET), this Mastercard Foundation-supported initiative aims to bridge the divide.
Mrs. Mariama Mahama, Principal of Dabokpa, noted that the success relied on the partnership between the Design & Technology Institute and Accents & Art. All graduates are now inducted into the PQ Alumni Association to maintain professional standards.
The Bottom Line
The PQ Internship Programme has successfully transitioned 253 youth into Ghana’s workforce, with over half already securing jobs in high-growth sectors like fashion, tech, and hospitality.
