Fidelity Bank and GIZ partner to empower PWDs through skills training in the Ahafo and Bono East Regions

Fidelity Bank Ghana has completed the Short-Term Skills Training Project. This project was in partnership with German Development Cooperation and the European Union. It focused on Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) in Ahafo and Bono East regions.

The initiative is part of Fidelity Bank’s Empower ALL program. It was implemented with Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ-Ghana). The project provided vocational and financial literacy training to over 230 participants. This exceeded the initial target of 150 participants.

The goal was to enhance employability, business skills, and financial independence for PwDs. The project is part of the Ghana-Germany Joint Action on Jobs, Migration, and Development (JMD). It aimed to integrate PwDs into local economies by providing market-relevant skills.

Training took place in communities like Prang, Yeji, Atebubu, Goaso, Hwidiem, and Bechem. Participants received practical entrepreneurship education along with financial literacy training. This helped them develop sustainable livelihoods.

Julian Opuni, Managing Director of Fidelity Bank Ghana, spoke about the initiative's impact. He emphasized the bank’s commitment to inclusive development. He stated that every Ghanaian deserves access to transformative opportunities.

Opuni noted that financial literacy is a critical way to achieve this goal. He highlighted the program's success as a reinforcement of their commitment to sustainable empowerment.

Fidelity Bank played a vital role by funding training materials and logistical support. Participants learned about market positioning, business strategy, savings, and budgeting. They also explored inclusive financial products tailored to their needs.

At the end of the program, participants received certificates of completion. This marked an important milestone towards their economic self-sufficiency.

Andreas Berding from GIZ praised the partnership with Fidelity Bank. He said it empowered persons with disabilities through skills development. Tailoring training to individual needs enhances economic independence for participants.

Berding highlighted how vocational training drives sustainable development through strategic partnerships. The project's success shows collaboration fosters socio-economic inclusion effectively.

Looking ahead, Fidelity Bank and GIZ plan to expand this initiative further. They aim to include mentorship programs and extended financial education workshops. They will engage more deeply with stakeholders like Labour Departments and Business Advisory Centres.

Nana Yaa Afriyie Ofori-Koree from Fidelity Bank commented on the broader impact of this initiative. She stated it demonstrates how strategic partnerships can create meaningful change for PwDs facing economic barriers.

Through this program, they have equipped individuals with tools for sustainable businesses and improved livelihoods. The strong response highlights the need for ongoing efforts in this area.

The Short-Term Skills Training Project exemplifies how partnerships can drive inclusive development effectively. Through collaboration among Fidelity Bank, GIZ, and local stakeholders, many lives have been positively impacted.