One conversation at Accra Technical University opened a door that would eventually take Aurelius Kwaku Fiadogbe from an engineering classroom in Accra to technical training and ultimately a career in Germany.
Today, Aurelius is an Electrical Technician in Altenburg, Germany. But his journey began at ATU, where an international collaboration offered Electrical and Mechanical Engineering students something beyond the traditional university experience: German-language preparation in Ghana, technical training in Germany and support throughout the transition.
For Aurelius, who studied Electrical and Electronics Engineering at ATU, it was an opportunity he decided he could not allow to pass.
In this student spotlight, he shares how the experience unfolded and why he believes other ATU students should embrace the international opportunities available to them.
When did you first hear about the opportunity to go to Germany?
Aurelius: I first heard about it while serving as SRC Vice President. The SRC President and I regularly met with the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Amevi Acakpovi, to discuss student issues. During one of those conversations, he mentioned an upcoming collaboration that would give Electrical and Mechanical Engineering students the opportunity to learn German at ATU and later undertake technical training in Germany.
As an Electrical Engineering student, that immediately caught my attention. I followed the development closely and was even present when the MoU was signed. I remember telling myself, “I have to be part of this, regardless of what it takes.”
What happened after you decided to pursue it?
Aurelius: When the German-language training started at ATU, I registered immediately. It wasn’t easy. Learning a completely new language was demanding, and there were moments of doubt and discouragement.
But I trusted the process and kept going. I eventually completed the language programme, passed my German examination at the Goethe-Institut and travelled to Germany.
Looking back, I am proud that I didn’t quit.
What was the experience like when you arrived in Germany?
Aurelius: The opportunity went beyond simply travelling abroad. I undertook intensive technical training in PLC and German Electrical Systems, which gave me practical exposure and allowed me to experience engineering and technical work in a different environment.
But what impressed me most was the support throughout the journey. From documentation and accommodation to our arrival, orientation and transition, we were guided. We weren’t simply sent to Germany and left to figure things out ourselves.
That support gave me confidence and peace of mind.
Where has the journey taken you today?
Aurelius: Today, I am working as an Electrical Technician in Altenburg, Germany.
Beyond the technical skills, the experience has changed me personally. I am more confident, adaptable and open to different cultures. It has also strengthened my desire to continue learning and developing professionally.
Sometimes I think back to that first conversation at ATU and realise how far one opportunity has brought me.
What would you tell another ATU student considering an exchange or international programme?
Aurelius: Take the opportunity seriously.
Don’t allow fear, rumours or uncertainty to stop you. Trust the process, commit yourself and give it your best. There may be difficult moments, but those moments are also part of the preparation.
For me, this programme didn’t just take me to Germany; it walked with me every step of the way.
That is what makes it special.
Aurelius’ journey reflects the possibilities that international partnerships can create when students are given the preparation and support to take advantage of them. Through collaborations with international partners, ATU is connecting academic and technical education with language development, international exposure and practical training opportunities beyond Ghana.
For students considering the next opportunity, Aurelius story carries a simple message: the opportunity may open the door, but you have to be willing to walk through it.