Tackling unemployment: GIMS trains youth for skilled jobs
Tackling unemployment in Ghana requires more than policy promises—it demands real skills. That’s why the Global Institute of Mines and Safety (GIMS) has stepped in. This private institution, located at Afrisipakrom in the Ahafo Region, is transforming jobless youth into skilled professionals.
Since 2018, GIMS has trained 2,076 young Ghanaians. These include operators for excavators, bulldozers, forklifts, cesspit emptiers, and more. While many talk about job creation, GIMS is doing it—batch by batch, skill by skill.
At its 30th graduation ceremony, CEO Gabriel Larry Yennugu revealed that 216 trainees, including 63 women, had completed the latest three-month course. These graduates are now ready to fill urgent labour gaps in mining and construction sectors across the country.
So far, GIMS isn’t acting alone. Through a partnership with the Catholic University of Ghana, the institute has strengthened its academic credibility while deepening its practical focus. This collaboration also ensures that trainees leave with industry-standard certifications.
Importantly, government bodies such as the DVLA, Ghana National Fire Service, Minerals Commission, and the National Ambulance Service support GIMS. Their role has enhanced training in safety, emergency response, and compliance.
Unemployment, according to Mr. Yennugu, cannot be solved without innovation. He stressed that most graduates come out of universities with degrees that don’t match job market needs. Therefore, GIMS offers an alternative—hands-on training that leads to immediate job placements or entrepreneurship.
Yet, there’s a caution. Mr. Yennugu warned graduates never to misuse their new skills in illegal mining activities. He urged them to uphold integrity, avoid drugs, and focus on building careers that contribute to Ghana’s economy.
Meanwhile, CUG Vice Chancellor Prof. Daniels Obeng-Ofori praised GIMS for prioritizing safety. He highlighted that mining and construction companies now actively seek graduates with the skills GIMS provides. As he explained, these firms need professionals who understand both machines and workplace ethics.
Furthermore, the Vice Chancellor emphasized that job readiness isn’t just about technical knowledge. Character, hard work, and honesty are just as critical. With that in mind, he challenged the graduates to bring value wherever they work.
At the same event, Tano North Municipal Private Schools Coordinator Kwadwo Anne proposed a new direction. He suggested GIMS should introduce machine repair and maintenance training. According to him, this would boost employment and reduce dependence on foreign technicians.
Clearly, tackling unemployment demands urgent and coordinated action. GIMS is proving that youth don’t need to wait for white-collar jobs. Instead, they can create their own path—armed with real skills, solid ethics, and industry-ready certification.
The journey doesn’t end at graduation. As GIMS and its partners expand their reach, the question is simple: will more institutions step up and follow their lead?
