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TRAINING AT YMCA VOCATIONAL INSTITUTE TAKORADI-GHANA

Gladys Ahiataku, Final Year Student.
Ymca Vocational Institute
Takoradi, Ghana.

On Tuesday 15th September 2006, I gained admission to YMCA Vocational Institute to pursue a three year programme in catering which consist of

On Tuesday 15th September 2006, I gained admission to YMCA Vocational Institute to pursue a three year programme in catering which consist of cookery theory, hygiene, home management, nutrition and cookery practical.

I was very happy enrolling in the YMCA Vocational Training Institute, knowing very well that YMCA is an international organisation therefore. Really my tenacity and resilience were put to the test when I had to adapt to the teaching and learning environment of the YMCA Vocational Training Institute. I realised that the environment at the institute was one that equipped you not only with the vocational skills, but also with the coping strategies for life’s little challenges as it pertains particularly in a developing country.

In my first year, I had to learn how to improvise in order to able to cope with my practical lessons. This, I realise, has become a major asset for me as I prepare to leave school to go into the working world.

I went for industrial attachment (internship) in my second year where I was exposed to most of the tools and equipment in the cookery trade. I related them to some of the things taught in class which I didn’t understand. However, I managed to learn something to share with my colleagues who did not have the opportunity to see these equipment.

Lo and behold on my return to complete the programme in the third year, something tremendous happened. A supply of catering and dressmaking equipment arrived, donated by CIDA (Canadian International Development Agency) through YMCA of Greater Toronto Canada, to facilitate learning and give better understanding in the area of practical lessons.

Now the problem of visiting other schools to use their practical equipment is over.

I can now boast confidently that my being at YMCA vocational institute has been successful. After my graduation I can handle tools effectively to work efficiently and use them appropriately. This would enable me to buy the required tools to set-up my own small scale business if I so wish or work with any industry with modern equipment for a better life.

Armed with the theoretical and practical knowledge that I have gained in my catering course as well as the coping strategies that I have naturally acquired from the YMCA school environment, I believe I can now confront life head on.

Below is name and contact details of student telling her story.

GLADYS AHIATAKU
FINAL YEAR STUDENT
YMCA VOCATIONAL INSTITUTE
TAKORADI.
GHANA W/A.

TEL: +233 247 488 842

posted onTuesday, January 26, 2010