The sixth cohort of the Dr. Bawumia Kayayei Skills Empowerment Programme recently celebrated its graduation, marking a significant milestone for young women in the informal workforce.
The initiative, launched by Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia, aims to uplift female porters (kayayei) by equipping them with vocational skills and essential resources to build sustainable livelihoods.
Graduates underwent specialized training in six areas: soap and detergent making, baking, beads and jewelry making, decor, pedicure and manicure, and makeup artistry.
Reflecting on their journey, several beneficiaries shared their motivations for joining, with many expressing a desire to move beyond the traditional kayayei role and establish independent businesses.
In addition to practical training, each graduate was provided with a tailored starter pack for their chosen skill area, along with a stipend facilitate their entrepreneurial start.
The initiative’s dual focus on skill-building and resource provision is designed to empower these women to pursue their professional goals, lifting them from economic vulnerability to self-reliance.