The Acting Vice-Chancellor of Accra, Professor Amevi Acakpovi, has stressed the vital role that technical universities in Ghana play in preparing students for the job market.

He made this statement at the 12th Biennial Delegate Conference of the Institute of Hospitality held at Accra Technical University on February 28, 2024.  

Addressing the theme of the conference, “The Hospitality Workforce: Enhancing Employee Satisfaction, Professionalism, and Productivity for Sustainable Development,” during his keynote address, Professor Acakpovi drew attention to technical universities’ substantial contributions to the country’s development and underscored the crucial need to align educational programmes with industry requirements, ensuring that graduates are thoroughly prepared for employment opportunities. ” We must equip them in a manner that not only prompts them to seek employment but empowers them to create job opportunities,” he stated.

Professor Acakpovi articulated that technical universities play a pivotal role in bridging the gap between academia and industry by providing students with practical skills and knowledge relevant to the job market. He highlighted the need for educational institutions to adapt their curricula to meet the evolving demands of the workforce, thereby enhancing graduates’ employability and contributing to national development initiatives.

Additionally, Professor Acakpovi stressed the importance of fostering partnerships between technical universities and industry stakeholders to facilitate internships, apprenticeships, and other experiential learning opportunities for students. These collaborations, he noted, not only enrich students’ learning experiences but also enable them to acquire hands-on skills and industry insights essential for professional growth and success in their careers.

He highlighted the essential role of the hospitality sector in Ghana’s economic development and stressed the need for continuous investment in workforce development initiatives. He pointed out the significance of enhancing employee satisfaction, professionalism, and productivity within the hospitality industry to ensure its long-term sustainability and growth.