VRA inspires SHATEC students with career guidance initiative
The Volta River Authority (VRA) last Thursday organised an Employee Volunteer Programme (EVP) at the Shama Technical Institute (SHATEC) in the Western Region, offering students career guidance, counselling and mentorship.
The programme, a flagship initiative of the VRA, targets senior high schools and technical institutions, with the aim of inspiring students in their academic and career development, while promoting human capital growth in communities within its operational areas.
Addressing the students, the Principal Information and Publicity Officer of the VRA, Mr Lawrence Quartey, explained that staff of the authority had volunteered their time to share knowledge and experiences on the world of work, and not to replace teachers.
He said the VRA had been running the EVP since 2013 and had organised similar programmes at Sekondi College and Ahantaman Girls’ Senior High School.
According to him, the initiative was designed to expose students to career opportunities, including prospects of working with the VRA or other organisations within the power generation sector.
Mr Quartey urged the students to broaden their horizons and take their studies seriously.
“We are here to encourage you to go beyond your limits. This is also to strengthen the relationship between VRA and schools so that together we can build a better society,” he stated.
The Community Relations Officer of the VRA, Mr Pope Yaw Yebo, noted that individuals who struggled to identify their strengths often set unrealistic goals, which could lead to disappointment.
He explained that the EVP was intended to guide students to better understand themselves, the educational system and career pathways, enabling them to make informed choices.
Mr Yebo outlined various career options, including science, law, engineering, beauty therapy, building technology, hospitality and catering.
“Many of us have dreams, but you should know who you are — whether you are an analytical thinker, pragmatic, creative, a natural leader or an environmental advocate,” he said.
He added that analytical individuals, for instance, might excel in fields such as scientific research, biology, archaeology or earth sciences, while those inclined towards innovation could pursue careers in architecture, information technology, engineering and design.
The Director of Thermal Generation at the VRA, Mr Jacob Brown Yawson, also encouraged the students to take advantage of vocational and technical education, noting that many pioneers in such fields held key positions in various institutions across the country.
He expressed confidence in the ability of SHATEC students to achieve their ambitions and advised them to take the sessions seriously.
“Don’t just listen. Pay attention to what the volunteers are teaching you and let it inspire you. Like Obama, you should be able to say, ‘I can do it.’ Be passionate, disciplined and responsible. Education is the best treasure your parents have given you,” he advised.
The Principal of SHATEC, Mr Paul Quaysie, commended the VRA for its commitment to corporate social responsibility and community development.
He said such partnerships would help strengthen technical and vocational education and enhance industry exposure for students.
FROM CLEMENT ADZEI BOYE, SHAMA
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