Graduates Must Become Job Creators, Okyenhene Urges

The Okyenhene, Osagyefo Amoatia Ofori Panin II, has called for the creation of robust support systems to empower Ghanaian university graduates to pursue entrepreneurship. He emphasized that the future prosperity of Ghana and the wider African continent hinges on cultivating graduates who are not merely degree holders but also critical thinkers, innovators, ethical leaders, and job creators.

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The future of Ghana and Africa largely depends on the ability of countries to produce graduates who are not only degree holders but also critical thinkers, innovators, ethical leaders and entrepreneurs.

Speaking at the investiture of Professor Eric Kwesi Ofori as the new Vice-Chancellor of Garden City University (GCU) in Kenyasi, the Okyenhene highlighted the transformative power of education. He cited Professor Ofori's journey from a young boy in Kyebi to a university vice-chancellor as an inspiration, underscoring that excellence is attainable through discipline, sacrifice, determination, and a relentless pursuit of knowledge.

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Just as proper preparation leads to success in examinations, it also contributes to success in life, including marriage.

Osagyefo Ofori Panin challenged the new Vice-Chancellor to elevate GCU into a leading higher learning institution in Africa. He described the role of a vice-chancellor as extending beyond administration to shaping minds, nurturing talent, promoting discovery, and upholding academic freedom. He expressed confidence that Professor Ofori's leadership would strengthen academic programs, expand research, foster industry partnerships, and produce graduates who contribute meaningfully to society.

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Without education, a young boy from Kyebi would not have risen to become the Vice-Chancellor of a reputable university in Ghana and a respected academic on the international stage.

Professor Ofori outlined his vision for GCU, stating that future leading African universities will be defined by adaptability, innovation, and purpose rather than size. His vision centers on producing graduates who create value and solve problems, thereby fostering a culture of innovation and self-reliance within the student body.

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Excellence is achieved through discipline, sacrifice, determination and the relentless pursuit of knowledge.