The Department of Distance Education at the School of Continuing and Distance Education, in partnership with the Commonwealth of Learning, has organised a two-day workshop aimed at enhancing career preparedness through the development of an Employability Framework. Bringing together faculty, staff, students and industry stakeholders, the workshop sought to address the challenges of an evolving job market while devising strategies to improve graduate employability.
Professor Samuel Amponsah, Head, Department of Distance Education
In his welcome address, Professor Samuel Amponsah, Head of the Department of Distance Education, underscored the significance of the initiative. He noted that the workshop was not merely about preparing students for employment but also about ensuring inclusivity and equal opportunities for all.
Professor Samuel Nii Ardey Codjoe, Provost, College of Education
Professor Samuel Nii Ardey Codjoe, Provost of the College of Education and Chairman of the programme, reaffirmed the University’s commitment to fostering diversity and inclusivity. “The University is dedicated to shaping students’ career paths while creating an environment where both faculty and staff can thrive,” he stated. He also commended the leadership of the Department of Distance Education for spearheading the workshop and expressed optimism about its outcomes.
Mr. Christopher Beukes, Keynote Speaker
Delivering the keynote address, Mr. Christopher Beukes, a psychologist and CEO of the South African Career Development Association, defined employability as a combination of achievements, skills, knowledge and personal attributes that enhance a graduate’s ability to secure and sustain employment. He highlighted the value of entrepreneurship, noting that the skills developed through running a business often translate into improved performance in traditional job roles.
A cross-section of participants
Mr. Beukes guided participants through the Commonwealth of Learning’s employability model, shared insights from the Department of Distance Education’s employability scorecard and outlined the student journey model, which spans from pre-induction to graduation.
A participant contributing to the discussion during the interactive session
During interactive sessions, participants expressed concerns about external pressures influencing career choices, restrictive admission requirements and uncertain career prospects. A key issue identified was the limited availability of career counselling services for the University’s estimated 80,000 students.
In response, Mr. Beukes proposed several initiatives, including vacation volunteering opportunities recorded on students’ transcripts and CVs, increased alumni engagement through live or recorded mentorship sessions and simplified career guidance materials in audiovisual formats to enhance accessibility.
Professor Emmanuel T. Botchwey, a Professor of Sociology, described the workshop as a valuable platform for lifelong learning. He encouraged participants to develop problem-solving skills to navigate the complexities of the modern job market.
Mrs. Joycelyn Boateng, College Human Resource Officer
Echoing this sentiment, Mrs. Joycelyn Boateng, College Human Resource Officer, stressed the importance of continuous learning and adaptability. She urged students to cultivate both soft and hard skills while taking advantage of the University’s professional development programmes.
Professor Oheneba Sakyi, founding Dean, School of Continuing and Distance Education
The Founding Dean of the School of Continuing and Distance Education, Professor Oheneba Sakyi, advocated for the reinstatement of mandatory Information Technology (IT) and Entrepreneurship courses to better prepare students for the workforce.
One of the groups deliberating on their topic
Participants were divided into groups to deliberate on key components of an effective university employability framework. Topics explored included curriculum integration, job readiness, career management, entrepreneurial mindsets, work experience, employer and alumni relations, professional ethics and digital literacy.
On the second day, discussions focused on finalising the proposed University of Ghana Employability Framework, with Professor Samuel Amponsah chairing the session.
To ensure the sustainability of these efforts, a University of Ghana Department of Distance Education Employability Committee was proposed. The committee will include representatives from the Career Counselling Centre, Human Resources Directorate, Student Representative Council, Alumni Association, Information Technology Directorate and key industry bodies such as the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI) and the Ghana Employers Association (GEA). Ex-officio members will include Professors Olivia A.T.F. Kwapong and Oheneba Sakyi.
Professor Olivia A.T.F. Kwapong, Dean, School of Continuing and Distance Education
In her closing remarks, Professor Olivia A.T.F. Kwapong, Dean of the School of Continuing and Distance Education, expressed her gratitude to all participants and her satisfaction with the progress achieved. She reaffirmed the University’s commitment to refining its employability initiatives and underscored the importance of adaptability, continuous learning, and problem-solving skills in today’s rapidly evolving job market.