The Chancellor of the Presbyterian University, Ghana (PUG), and Moderator of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana, Rt. Rev. Dr. Abraham Opare Kwakye, has called on the University to strengthen industry-focused training and equip students with skills that enable them to create jobs and solve societal problems.
Addressing the 20th Congregation Ceremony of the University, the Chancellor described graduate unemployment and the disconnect between academic training and workplace demands as a growing national concern requiring urgent attention.
He stressed that Ghana needs graduates who can create opportunities and drive innovation rather than merely joining the queue for employment. According to him, PUG must continually review its academic programmes to ensure they remain relevant, responsive and aligned with the needs of industry and national development.
Rt. Rev. Dr. Opare Kwakye said the University should strengthen internships, entrepreneurship training, practical learning and industry partnerships as part of its commitment to holistic education. “The new programmes introduced this year are a step in the right direction,” he noted, while urging alumni and corporate partners to support the University through student placements, mentorship and industry exposure opportunities.
The Chancellor further advocated stronger links between academic programmes and the world of work, noting that internships, practical projects, research, entrepreneurship and sustained engagement with industry should form an integral part of the student experience.
He said universities must prepare graduates not only to seek employment but also to create opportunities, solve problems and serve their communities. Rt. Rev. Dr. Abraham Nana Opare Kwakye emphasised that responding to these challenges requires a collective effort involving the University’s Council, Management, faculty, staff, students, alumni, the Church and development partners.
“As a Christian university, PUG must respond to change without losing its identity. We must be innovative without compromising our values, competitive without abandoning compassion, and ambitious without sacrificing integrity,” he stated.
The Chancellor also paid tribute to the graduating class, acknowledging the personal sacrifices many had made to reach the milestone. He noted that several students had overcome financial difficulties, family responsibilities, health challenges and other obstacles through perseverance and God’s grace.
He expressed appreciation to parents, guardians, sponsors and families for their unwavering support, prayers and sacrifices, which contributed significantly to the success of the graduands. Rt. Rev. Dr. Abraham Nana Opare Kwakye also commended the Vice-Chancellor, Management, faculty and staff of the University for their dedication to nurturing the next generation of leaders.
By Jerome Otchere
