Building a successful future requires a deliberate focus on skills development, initiative and a strong sense of purpose, the Chief Corporate Services and Sustainability Officer of MTN Ghana, Mrs Adjoa Wiafe has said.
According to her, demands of the modern job market were rapidly evolving, making it necessary for individuals to go beyond academic qualifications and develop practical competencies that enhance employability.
Speaking at the Success Africa Foundation Summit in partnership with MTN Ghana in Accra on Saturday, Mrs Wiafe emphasised the importance of intentional personal development and cultivating soft skills needed to thrive in the modern workplace.
The programme was designed to prepare tertiary students for the job market by providing career guidance, soft skills training and direct engagement with industry professionals.
She noted that success was shaped by deliberate effort rather than chance, urging the youth to take responsibility for their growth.
“We must be intentional about the things we do to grow, the way we relate to people, and the skills we build to move ourselves forward,” Mrs Wiafe stated.
She encouraged students to look beyond formal job descriptions and adopt what she described as “discretionary effort,” going above and beyond assigned responsibilities.
According to her, individuals who demonstrated initiative and remained proactive were more likely to be recognised for opportunities and career advancement.
“If you are disengaged at the workplace, chances are you will remain stagnant. But those who take initiative, volunteer and make themselves visible are the ones who progress,” Mrs Wiafe added.
She further stressed that abandoning rigid attachment to job titles could be liberating, allowing individuals to explore broader contributions and create meaningful impact both within and outside their organisations.
The Chief Executive Officer of the Success Africa Foundation, Kusi Prempeh Solomon, said the summit formed part of a long-running mentorship initiative aimed at equipping students with employability skills.
He noted that the programme, now in its 19th year, has reached thousands of students across multiple universities, including the University of Ghana.
This year alone, he said, nearly 8,000 young people have benefited from sessions held nationwide.
Mr Solomon highlighted concerns from employers about the preparedness of graduates entering the job market, stressing the need for stronger collaboration between stakeholders to address the gap.
“Companies continue to raise concerns about the quality of graduates. Platforms like this help students understand what is expected and build the confidence to navigate the job market,” he said.
He added that beyond seminars, the foundation is expanding its mentorship hubs to provide deeper engagement and practical opportunities, including potential placements in corporate institutions.
Mr Solomon called on government agencies, private sector players and other organisations to prioritise youth empowerment as part of their core strategies.
“We all have a role to play in building a better Ghana. By investing in young people, we are securing the future of our workforce and our nation,” he said.
BY RAYMOND APPIAH-AMPONSAH
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