Are Fashion Schools in Ghana primarily producing Tailors rather than Fashion Designers?

Every year, the fashion scene in Ghana sees an influx of over 1000 graduates from various fashion schools. Despite investing substantial sums in their education, many of these graduates seem to disappear after their first year, struggling to make a significant impact in the industry. While some manage to find their footing, only a handful truly break through into the fashion scene.

In contrast to neighboring countries like Togo and Benin, which lack dedicated fashion schools, Ghana boasts over 15 major fashion institutions in its capital, Accra. However, a concerning trend is emerging, where these schools predominantly churn out “fashion designers-cum-tailors,” imposing a narrow focus on sewing or design styles that may not align with the students’ interests. Many graduates lack essential knowledge of concepts like mood boards or the roles of fashion buyers and merchandisers.

Discovering that one’s passion lies beyond designing clothes is not uncommon. In fact, the fashion industry offers a plethora of career options suited to different skills and personalities. It’s imperative for fashion schools to recognize this diversity and introduce courses that cater to a wider range of career paths, beyond just design.

Regrettably, the prevailing system often leaves graduates disillusioned, with many ending up as tailors rather than designers. This stifles their creative expression, leading them to imitate trends rather than innovate. There’s a notable disparity between students’ expectations and their actual experiences, stemming from a lack of exposure to industry realities during their education.

Having attended numerous graduate shows, I’ve observed that many graduates struggle to articulate their ideas or define their collections. This raises questions about whether we’re nurturing future fashion leaders or perpetuating false aspirations.

Looking ahead, fashion schools must diversify their curricula to include courses covering various fashion careers. From stylists to writers, illustrators to PR specialists, the industry offers a myriad of opportunities beyond design. It’s essential for students to explore their passions, intern with fashion firms, and seek additional learning beyond the classroom to truly excel in the field.

The Simple Verdict & Solution

Fashion schools in Ghana, like in many other countries, typically aim to produce a range of professionals within the fashion industry, including both tailors and fashion designers. However, the emphasis on tailoring skills might vary depending on the specific curriculum and focus of each school.

In Ghana, there is a rich tradition of tailoring and craftsmanship, so it’s possible that some fashion schools may place a strong emphasis on teaching tailoring skills. This is not necessarily to the exclusion of fashion design, but rather as a complementary skill set within the broader field of fashion.

That said, many fashion schools in Ghana also offer comprehensive programs that cover various aspects of fashion design, including conceptualization, pattern making, garment construction, and fashion business management. These programs aim to develop students’ creative abilities, technical skills, and industry knowledge to prepare them for careers as fashion designers, stylists, entrepreneurs, and other related roles within the fashion industry.

Ultimately, the focus of fashion schools in Ghana may vary from one institution to another, and students have the opportunity to choose programs that align with their interests and career goals, whether they lean more towards tailoring or fashion design.

Fashion Design and Talioring: In Depth Solution – Way 

Fashion education in Ghana stands at a crossroads, balancing tradition and innovation, craftsmanship and creativity. One recurring question in the discourse surrounding fashion schools in Ghana is whether they predominantly produce tailors rather than fashion designers. This article delves into the intricacies of fashion education in Ghana, exploring the historical context, curriculum dynamics, and the evolving role of fashion schools in shaping the industry.

The Dynamics of Fashion Education in Ghana: Navigating Between Tailoring and Fashion Design

Historical Context:

Ghana boasts a rich cultural heritage, where textiles and garment-making have played pivotal roles for centuries. Traditional Ghanaian attire, characterized by vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and skilled craftsmanship, reflects the country’s diverse ethnic groups and cultural practices. Historically, apprenticeships and informal training were the primary avenues for acquiring tailoring skills, passed down through generations within families or apprenticeships under master tailors.

Transition to Formal Education:

In recent decades, the landscape of fashion education in Ghana has undergone significant transformation. Formal institutions offering fashion-related courses have emerged, responding to the growing demand for skilled professionals in the industry. These institutions range from vocational training centers to universities, offering diverse programs encompassing both tailoring and fashion design.

Curriculum Dynamics:

The curriculum offered by fashion schools in Ghana often reflects a blend of traditional tailoring techniques and contemporary fashion design principles. Tailoring modules typically focus on pattern drafting, garment construction, and mastery of sewing techniques. On the other hand, fashion design courses emphasize creative expression, trend analysis, fashion illustration, and the use of modern technology in design processes.

Challenges and Perceptions:

Despite the efforts to integrate fashion design into the curriculum, there persists a perception that fashion schools in Ghana primarily churn out skilled tailors rather than innovative fashion designers. This perception stems partly from the emphasis on practical skills over creative exploration in some programs. Additionally, societal attitudes towards vocational education versus academic pursuits may influence students’ career choices and the perceived prestige of certain professions within the fashion industry.

Evolving Perspectives:

However, it’s essential to recognize that the role of fashion schools extends beyond simply training tailors or designers. These institutions serve as incubators for creative talent, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, and nurturing entrepreneurship within the fashion ecosystem. Many graduates of fashion schools in Ghana have successfully carved out niche markets, blending traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design sensibilities.

Towards a Balanced Approach:

To address the dichotomy between tailoring and fashion design, there’s a growing consensus on the need for a balanced approach in fashion education. This entails integrating theoretical knowledge with practical skills, fostering creativity alongside technical proficiency, and providing students with exposure to global trends while preserving Ghana’s cultural heritage.

Conclusion:

Fashion schools in Ghana play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the industry, bridging the gap between tradition and innovation, craftsmanship and creativity. While the emphasis on tailoring skills remains significant, there’s a gradual shift towards a more holistic approach that nurtures diverse talents and fosters a culture of innovation. By embracing this evolution, fashion education in Ghana can continue to empower the next generation of designers, artisans, and entrepreneurs to make their mark on the global fashion stage.