Last year, the Women’s Development Centre (WDC) took meaningful steps toward strengthening women’s economic independence and resilience through skills development. Across Ghana, many women seek practical opportunities to increase their income and better support their families and communities despite limited opportunities and structural barriers (Agyemang, 2017).

Through the Skills for Occupational Advancement (SOA) initiative, WDC delivered hands-on vocational training designed to equip women with marketable, income-generating skills. With the support of donors and partners, the program focused on creating real pathways to financial stability, renewed confidence, and lasting transformation.

To address these needs, WDC implemented structured training workshops in four key areas: Make-up Artistry, Nail Care & Artistry, Hair Anatomy & Care, and Skin & Facial Courses. Through these practical sessions, more than 120 Ghanaian women acquired skills in nail design, makeup, and facial treatments, skills they can monetize to support their families and communities. The workshops emphasized hands-on learning to ensure participants developed competencies they could immediately apply.

Partnership and collaboration remained central to the mission. In 2025, WDC partnered with the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) in Ghana to host a workshop titled “Becoming a Citizen by the Constitution of Ghana.” This initiative strengthened participants’ confidence and engagement in community life while providing further insight into their needs. By integrating civic education alongside vocational skills training, the program reinforced both economic empowerment and active citizenship.

The impact of these efforts has been measurable and meaningful. Participants experienced a 14% increase in household income through livelihood initiatives connected to the program. Many of the women who completed training are already generating income using the skills they learned. What began as skills development in the classroom has translated into practical income-generating activities within communities.

Voices from the community reflect this progress: “Over 100 women and youth advanced practical skills—from bridal makeup to 3D nail art—while civic classes built confidence and citizenship.” This testimony highlights the dual focus on strengthening vocational competence while fostering civic awareness and engagement.

Beyond income growth, participants are gaining newfound confidence, purpose, and hope for a better future. The ability to earn and contribute financially strengthens families and positively influences local economies. When women are equipped with vocational skills, the benefits extend far beyond individual participants, reaching households and communities as a whole.

Your generosity makes this transformation possible. Every contribution helps expand vocational training, reach more women, and provide them with tools to sustain long-term change. With continued support, WDC hopes to enroll more women, acquire additional resources for training, and improve the quality of life for Ghanaian women. Together, we are encouraging women to thrive, lead, and transform their communities.

References

Agyemang, L. (2017). “Women’s Work: Labor Market Outcomes and Female Entrepreneurship in Ghana.” Butler Journal of Undergraduate Research, 3, 1–25. 

Org, ANIDA. (2025). (rep.). ANIDA Quarterly Programs Review (pp. 1–21). ANIDA.