Ghana is nurturing a new generation of creatives.
Creative Arts and Design (CAD) in Junior High Schools (JHS) lays the foundation for problem-solving, visual, and performance skills, while Art and Design Foundation in Senior High Schools (SHS) builds deeper exposure to visual arts, media, and design.
Yet talent alone is not enough—practical guidance is crucial to turning creativity into career-ready skills.
UNIMAC (NAFTI) can play a transformative role. With government support, NAFTI can offer short foundation courses to advanced JHS and SHS students, providing hands-on experience in filmmaking, animation, digital media, and sound production.
Early exposure—ideally between ages 10 and 18—helps students refine their talents under professional mentorship.
Evidence from NAFTI’s recent open day, where students reported news with professionalism at the radio and TV studios, shows the power of practical experience.
Nationwide integration will require careful planning, as many schools lack equipment, trained teachers, or funding. Phased integration, school-NAFTI partnerships, mobile labs, teacher training, and equitable access are essential.
When implemented thoughtfully, NAFTI programmes can improve career prospects, enabling freelance work, entrepreneurship, and employment in the creative sector.
For Ghana, a skilled creative workforce can boost jobs, attract investment, and expand cultural exports.
By combining CAD, Art and Design Foundation, NAFTI expertise, and government support, Ghana can responsibly nurture young talent—preparing students for careers while strengthening the education system and creative economy.
Abban Stanley,
MPhil. Economics.
E-mail: Stanicorn00@gmail.com
