The Dr Hilla Limann Technical University (DHLTU) has officially launched its annual creative arts exhibition in Wa, spotlighting the pivotal role of creative skills in sustainable development and youth empowerment.
The five-day exhibition, held at the forecourt of the Ministries, was organised by the Department of Industrial Art on the theme; “Creative Skills for Sustainable Development: Empowering Youth through Art, Innovation, and TVET.”
It featured a collection of student artworks, including ceramics, textiles, leather technology, jewellery, graphic design, metal fabrication, basketry, and woodwork, drawing attention from members of the public.
Dr John Boateng, the Head of the Department of Industrial Art at the DHLTU, said the exhibition demonstrated how creative skills, combined with Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), could drive sustainable development and foster youth entrepreneurship.
He emphasised that the artworks reflected innovation, problem-solving, material exploration, and entrepreneurial thinking, which were core competencies required in today’s dynamic and technology-driven world.
“These are the very competencies required in today’s dynamic and technology-driven world. Through art and TVET, we equip young people not only to seek jobs, but to create them.
We nurture creativity that leads to enterprise, we transform indigenous materials into value-added products, we preserve cultural heritage while enhancing modern design innovation”, Dr Boateng explained.
The exhibition also serves as a platform to inspire senior high school students to pursue careers in the creative industries, while scouting and mentoring emerging talent in the region.
Dr Boateng stressed that through art and TVET, young people were equipped not only to seek employment but to create it.
Professor Baba Insah, the Pro Vice-Chancellor of the DHLTU, indicated that the artworks demonstrated innovation, technical competence and practical application of knowledge, which was a priority of the University.
“As a technical university, we are committed to equipping students with industry-relevant skills for entrepreneurship, self-reliance and national growth”, he explained.
Prof. Insah also stated that the exhibition reflected the power of creativity, innovation and TVET in propelling economic and social growth.
Mr Vitus Songotuah, the Registrar of the DHLTU, observed that art was embedded in everyday human life, manifested in activities such as the way people walk or dress.
He encouraged the students to cultivate entrepreneurial mindsets and strive for self-reliance, noting that while government employment was important, self-employment offers independence and long-term financial sustainability.
The exhibition underscores DHLTU’s dedication to positioning art and TVET as vital tools for national transformation, economic growth, and the empowerment of Ghana’s youth.
GNA
