Accra – September 18, 2025 – In a landmark gathering aimed at tackling Ghana's most pressing economic challenges, the Design & Technology Institute (DTI), in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation and in collaboration with the National Development Planning Commission (NDPC), successfully hosted the 5th Annual National Precision Quality Conference.
The Annual PQ Conference, an initiative of DTI, under the theme "Investing in Human Capital as a Powerful Driver of Economic Growth," brought together diverse stakeholders to discuss and agree on the outline and direction for the development of the human capital framework.
The conference underscored the urgent need for a cohesive, multi-sectoral approach to Ghana’s human capital development.
A key highlight of the event was the presentation of a baseline study on human capital in Ghana, commissioned by DTI and NDPC. The findings from the research will serve as a foundational guide for policymakers and industry leaders as they develop and implement long-term strategies.
There were robust discussions and breakaway sessions focused on transforming the world of work through the human capital development policy strategy. This means relevant and intentional education, formalising the informal sector, leveraging natural resources responsibly, and fostering a culture of innovation and quality across all industries.
Ms Constance Swaniker, Founder and President of DTI, emphasised the importance of the event's outcomes. "This conference is a clear call to action and a commitment to invest in skills, creating jobs, and ensuring human capital development remains a shared national priority. This is the only way to ensure our youth are equipped with the technical expertise and entrepreneurial skills needed to build a resilient and inclusive economy."
"The next phase is critical. Our success hinges on our ability to institutionalise the collaborations forged here today," Ms Swaniker continued.
Hon. Dr Abdul-Rashid Hassan Pelpuo, Minister for Labour, Jobs, and Employment, underscored the government's commitment to the human capital framework. "Our true wealth as a nation is not only in our minerals or oil but in the ingenuity, creativity, and resilience of our people. The challenge is clear: the global economy is a race, and we must run it with a well-trained and motivated workforce. The human capital framework will be a collective effort, requiring the dedication of our industry leaders, educational institutions, and every single citizen. We are laying the foundations, but we must also accelerate implementation with focus and discipline to ensure every individual's potential is a powerful driver of economic growth."
The conference concluded with a series of recommendations and actionable next steps, with a commitment from all parties to ensure a swift and effective implementation of the human capital development framework.
The conference also featured an exhibition, Innovations in the Garden, which showcased advancements in the TVET space and the informal sector, demonstrating tangible examples of the positive impact of strategic skills development.
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About Design and Technology Institute
The Design and Technology Institute (DTI) is a world-class Technical and Vocational Education Training (TVET) institution for young people. It was officially launched in September 2019 to provide a platform for students from various Universities, Polytechnics, Technical and Vocational Institutions to gain industry experience by working closely with artisans on a factory floor, supported by experienced instructors. The mission of the Institute is to transform skills training for young people in Ghana and across West Africa.
The Institute offers scholarships to needy but brilliant students in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation under their Young Africa Works strategy in Ghana. The campus is located at Mempeasem, East Legon, behind the Ghana Meteorological Agency (Digital Address: GA-484-6124).
About the Mastercard Foundation
The Mastercard Foundation works with visionary organisations to enable young people in Africa and Indigenous communities in Canada to access dignified and fulfilling work. It is one of the largest private foundations in the world, with a mission to advance learning and promote financial inclusion to create an inclusive and equitable world. The Foundation was created by Mastercard in 2006 as an independent organisation with its own Board of Directors and Management.
For more information on the Foundation, please visit: www.mastercardfdn.org
About the Young Africa Works Programme
Young Africa Works is the Mastercard Foundation’s strategy to enable 30 million young people, particularly young women, to access dignified and fulfilling work by 2030. It is estimated that by 2030, Africa will be home to the world’s largest workforce, with 375 million young people entering the labour market. With the right skills, these young people will improve their lives and the lives of their communities, contributing to Africa’s overall competitiveness.
The Young Africa Works program is currently being implemented in seven African countries in collaboration with governments, the private sector, business leaders, educators and young people. Countries involved in the first phase of the strategy include: Rwanda, Kenya, Senegal, Ethiopia, Ghana, Nigeria and Uganda.
Media Contacts
Design & Technology Institute
Charles Mensah, Media Consultant: cmensah@mech-consult.com
Mastercard Foundation
Felix Baidoo – Lead, Country Programme Communications, Ghana: fbaidoo@mastercardfdn.org
