Opportunities Industrialization Centre Ghana (OICG) was conceived when a group of public-spirited Ghanaians spearheaded by Messrs S. Mends met in 1968 to discuss ways and means of assisting their countrymen to address the worsening problem of unemployment in Ghana. The Ghanaian pioneers got help from the late Rev. Sullivan, the founder
of OIC International based in the USA. OICG was finally estab
lished in April 1970 as an affiliate of Opportunities Industrialization Centres International, USA. OICG became fully operational in Accra in July 1971. Since then, it has experienced tremendous growth in spite of the changing economic conditions in the country in particular and the world in general. OICG is currently subvented by Government of Ghana through the Ministry of Employment and Labour Relations (MELR). It is governed by Board of Directors drawn from various fields of endeavour. Since its establishment in 1971 in Accra, OICG has extended its Vocational and Technical training programmes to the Ashanti and Western Regions (Kumasi and Sekondi/Takoradi). Each of the three centres offer courses that respond to the manpower needs of the area they operate from. Course Duration
OICG courses at its training centres run for a period of 2 years. However, other short courses are available to meet individual needs. Training Strategies
1. Centre-based/Formal – Literate youth
2. Improved Apprenticeship/Non-formal – Non-literate and semi-literate youth. Target Beneficiaries
The following are OICG target beneficiaries for its training:
1. JHS/SHS graduates
2. JHS/SHS students unable to complete
3. Literate youth aged between 18 and 35years. Training Facilities
1. ICT Laboratories
The computer laboratories are furnished with modern ICT equipment including computers, UPS, printers, scanners and digital projectors. Trainees in all skill areas have regular access to the ICT laboratory based on a timetable. Trainees who utilize the ICT laboratories are required to abide by the rules and regulations set up y the Centre.
2. Classrooms/Workshops
OICG training centres have classrooms and workshops for training purposes. Each classroom has desks and whiteboards for training. There are also workshops for practical session. Trainees are also required to attend their practicals as required by the centre.
3. Libraries
OICG has a stock of books available which serves as reference and research purposes for trainees and instructors. OICG Training Approach/Process
i. Admission
OICG admit persons who are desirous of acquiring marketable vocational skills. Counseling
Counseling is an integral part of all OICG programmes. At OICG, provision of Employable skills begins with effective guidance and
counseling for potential trainees in the choice of trade areas. The objective is to improve on individual trainee's self-esteem. This helps
them resolve personal problems during training and sustain interest throughout the training
iii. Vocational Skills Training
Vocational Skills Training provided ensures 30% theory and 70% practical. Instruction is paced at individual trainee's learning ability to ensure that their needs are met. Duration can vary with the attainment and readiness of individuals to take OICG's Examinations as well as the Standard Certification Examination set by the National Vocational Training Institute (NVTI). Business Management Skills Training
Business Management training is also provided to trainees throughout the course duration. It is to prepare trainees to enable them set up and
manage their own businesses after training.
5. On-the-Job Training (OJT)
OICG trainees are attached to industries and commerce for a minimum of 16 weeks to enable them to have hands-on experience and exposure to the market environment. This is part of the training component, combining centre-based training with on-the-job training approach. Trainee Admission
The admission process is to assist prospective trainees to complete needed admission formalities into OICG training centre. Prospective trainees may apply to the Centre Manager by post. Applicants may also buy Admission Forms in person from the Accounts Department. Applicants with completed application form will be directed to the counselor. The counselor will take applicant through brief intake guidance and may grant admission if there is vacancy or place applicant on a waiting list. For office skills, applicants shall take a screening test in English to justify admission. Admission
Where applicant is found suitable, an Admission Letter Package signed by Centre Manager will be issued to the applicant. Package includes:
1. Admission form
2. Medical examination form
3. Bill for training contribution
4. Prospectus
5. Invitation letter to parent
6. Code of discipline.
