Graduates urged to embrace digitisation, software development, artificial intelligence
Former Rector of Koforidua Technical University (KTU), Dr George Afrani, has urged graduates to embrace opportunities in digitisation, software development, and artificial intelligence (AI) to thrive as entrepreneurs.
Addressing the 21st Congregation of KTU in Koforidua yesterday, he emphasised that these fields, central to the ongoing Fourth Industrial Revolution, hold immense potential for young innovators.
Speaking under the theme “The Future of Science and Technology Education: The Role of Stakeholders”, Dr Afrani highlighted that AI, though in its nascent stage, offers vast opportunities for graduates to leverage their technical skills to create innovative solutions.
He encouraged them to harness these tools, not only to establish their businesses but also to create employment opportunities for others.
A total of 1,332 graduates received Higher National Diplomas, while 797 earned Bachelor of Technology degrees in various disciplines during the ceremony.
Dr. Afrani advised the graduates to adopt a proactive entrepreneurial mindset, starting small through digitization and social media.
He cited inspirational examples such as Osei Kwame Despite, a celebrated Ghanaian entrepreneur, and Esther Ocloo, founder of Nkulenu Industries, to illustrate how discipline and hard work combined with technical expertise could lead to success.
He further emphasized that entrepreneurship could be a powerful solution to Ghana’s unemployment challenges, urging the youth to commit to self-employment and innovation.
In his address, the Vice Chancellor of KTU, Professor John Owusu, commended the graduates and encouraged them to diligently apply the skills and knowledge gained to excel in life.
He announced significant advancements made by the university to enhance its Information, Communication, and Technology (ICT) infrastructure.
“We have procured 100 computers to refurbish our computer laboratories and offices, which will help improve ICT service delivery within the university community,” Professor Owusu stated.
Additionally, he revealed that the university had received GHC950,000 from the government for the academic year.
“These funds are being directed toward academic facilities, infrastructure, faculty development, and research,” he said.
Further, the institution received a pickup vehicle and advanced engineering equipment through the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund) and the Commission for Technical and Vocational Education and Training, respectively, he said.
Despite these developments, Professor Owusu outlined several pressing challenges the university faced, including limited on-campus accommodation for staff, insufficient library and laboratory facilities, and inadequate workshop spaces.
He appealed to the government for support in addressing these critical needs to enhance KTU’s ability to attract and retain qualified personnel.
FROM AMA TEKYIWAA AMPADU AGYEMAN, KOFORIDUA