Universities must produce job creators, not just degree holders

The Okyenhene, Osagyefuo Amoatia Ofori Panin, has called on universities to realign their academic programmes with the evolving demands of the global job market, urging higher education institutions to produce graduates who are innovators, entrepreneurs and job creators rather than merely degree holders.

Speaking as the Special Guest of Honour at the investiture of Professor Eric Kwasi Ofori as Vice-Chancellor of Garden City University and the university’s 18th Congregation, the Okyenhene said rapid technological advancement, artificial intelligence, climate change, public health challenges and changing labour markets require universities to rethink how they prepare students for the future.

“The significance of today’s ceremony extends beyond one individual. We are living in a rapidly changing world shaped by technological advancement, artificial intelligence, climate change, public health challenges, economic uncertainty and evolving labour markets. Universities must therefore become centres of innovation, entrepreneurship, research and problem-solving,” he stated.

He observed that while many young Ghanaians possess the determination and entrepreneurial spirit to establish businesses, they often face significant barriers in translating their ideas into successful enterprises.

“I have often asked myself how our universities can better promote entrepreneurship. Today, many young people in our country have the talent, determination and entrepreneurial spirit to start their own businesses.

“However, doing so is often very difficult. We must create an enabling environment that makes it possible for young people to establish and grow their own enterprises,” he said.

According to the Okyenhene, Africa’s economic future will depend largely on the quality of graduates produced by its universities and their ability to solve real-world problems.

“The future of jobs in Africa will depend on our ability to produce graduates who are not merely degree holders, but critical thinkers, innovators, ethical leaders and job creators,” he stressed.

Osagyefuo Amoatia Ofori Panin described education as the most sustainable investment any nation can make, saying it remains the surest pathway to national development and prosperity.

“As a traditional leader, I have long recognised that education remains the most sustainable investment any society can make. Throughout my reign, I have consistently championed educational advancement because I firmly believe that the development of our people is the foundation upon which a prosperous society is built,” he noted.

He also cited the journey of the newly inducted Vice-Chancellor, Professor Eric Kwasi Ofori, as evidence of the transformative power of education.

“The story of Professor Kwesi Ofori profoundly illustrates that where you are born does not determine your destiny. Education has the power to transform a young boy from Kyebi into a respected scholar, an internationally recognised academic, and now the Vice-Chancellor of one of Ghana’s most respected universities,” the Okyenhene said.

He urged universities to continue investing in innovation, entrepreneurship and research to equip graduates with the knowledge and practical skills needed to drive economic transformation and create employment across the continent.