Hon. Abla Dzifa Gomashie, Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, delivered an inspirational message to students of the Design and Technology Institute (DTI) during a visit to the National Theatre in Accra. Her address, preceding the annual staging of Maria’s Love Story, centered on the transformative potential of creativity and the vital role of artists in national development. Drawing from her personal experiences in the arts, the Minister encouraged the students to embrace bold dreams, cultivate their creative talents, and harness their skills to make a meaningful contribution to Ghanaian society. She highlighted the unique opportunities offered by DTI’s blended approach to technical and artistic education, urging the students to capitalize on this training and push the boundaries of their imaginations.
The Minister’s address underscored the importance of recognizing the contributions of creatives to the nation’s progress. She commended President John Dramani Mahama for appointing a professional from the creative industry to lead the tourism, culture, and creative arts sector, emphasizing the significance of this decision in acknowledging the vital role artists play in shaping the cultural landscape and driving tourism. Hon. Gomashie reminded the students of their responsibility as ambassadors, not only for DTI but also for Ghana, urging them to leverage their privileged access to quality education to uplift their communities and inspire positive change.
Hon. Gomashie articulated the critical link between culture, tourism, and national development, emphasizing that a thriving nation must value its creative minds. She pointed out that culture, a primary driver of tourism, is shaped by artists across various disciplines, from storytellers and painters to poets and artisans. The Minister stressed the importance of respecting and supporting these individuals, recognizing their essential contribution to the nation’s identity and economic growth. Her message conveyed a clear call to action, urging the students to recognize their potential as agents of change and to contribute actively to building a prosperous and culturally vibrant Ghana.
The Minister underscored the unique advantage the DTI students possess, having access to an education that many other young Ghanaians lack. This access, she emphasized, comes with a responsibility to make the most of the opportunities presented. Referencing Constance Swaniker, the founder of DTI, and other investors, Hon. Gomashie urged the students to honor the investment in their future by committing to excellence and making a tangible difference. This call to action served as a powerful reminder of the potential they hold and the imperative to use their skills and knowledge to contribute positively to society.
The event at the National Theatre also included the presence of other notable figures, highlighting the importance of the occasion and the government’s support for DTI’s mission. Hon. Gizella Tetteh-Agbotui, Deputy Minister for Works and Housing and Member of Parliament for Awutu Senya West, joined the Minister for Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts. Hon. Tetteh-Agbotui’s background as an architect served as an inspiring example for the design students, showcasing the potential for creative professions to contribute to both artistic expression and practical development. Also present was Mr. Divine Owusu Ansah, Director of Culture and Creative Arts at the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, further emphasizing the Ministry’s commitment to fostering the creative sector.
The Design and Technology Institute, as a leading technical and vocational education institution, plays a crucial role in shaping Ghana’s future workforce. Its distinctive approach, integrating creative expression with technical training, sets it apart and prepares students for diverse career paths in industry and entrepreneurship. DTI’s ambition to become West Africa’s premier industrial job training and prototype development center reflects its commitment to driving innovation and contributing to the region’s economic growth. The visit from the Minister for Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts underscored the government’s recognition of DTI’s significant contribution to national development and its potential to empower young Ghanaians with the skills and knowledge to thrive in the evolving job market.
