Berekum: Nana Kusi Amoa Gyan, the Patron of the Berekum branch of the Ghana National Association of Garment Makers, has called on local garment manufacturers to serve as mentors and role models for their apprentices. He emphasized that apprentices learn a significant amount from observing their mentors and urged manufacturers to exhibit exemplary conduct and avoid unhealthy lifestyles that could negatively influence their trainees.

According to Ghana News Agency, Nana Gyan, who is also the Chief of Amankokwaa in the Berekum West District of the Bono Region, delivered this advice during a meeting of the Association in Berekum. He encouraged local manufacturers to focus on shaping the character and skills of their trainees, rather than merely punishing them for mistakes. He stressed the importance of teaching and guiding as primary responsibilities of mentors.

Nana Gyan highlighted the evolving nature of the craft, noting that many trainee graduates are now pursuing careers in fashion design. He urged families to support their children in acquiring employable skills that could lead to self-sufficient careers. Garment manufacturing, he noted, is a lucrative enterprise, and the association is committed to addressing emerging challenges in the sector. He also called on the youth in the area to engage in the craft for employment.

In addition, Nana Gyan appealed to the government to provide support for young people interested in learning garment manufacturing and to assist local manufacturers in expanding their workshops and businesses. Mrs. Grace Anane, the Financial Secretary of the branch, echoed this sentiment, urging the government to create a more conducive environment for the private sector to thrive, which would in turn facilitate job creation and poverty reduction.