Is today’s formal education aligned with the needs of today’s industries?
This question took center stage during discussions at the Stakeholders’ Engagement Forum (SEF) held from October 3-5. The aim of the Forum was to enhance the professional development of university graduates by fostering collaboration among industry, academia, and policymakers to address pressing challenges such as unemployment.
The stakeholder participants were pulled from Higher Education Institutions (HEIs), Industry Players, Alumni and Student Leaders, and Policymakers. The group-based brainstorm sessions at the Forum allowed participants to view challenges from various perspectives, helping them better understand the skills mismatch issue. Important insights emerged as discussions highlighted the disconnection between what universities teach and what employers actually need.
Representing Central University at the Forum were Mrs. Ruth Afful, Director of Academic & Students Services; Mr. Evans Adu-Gyamfi, Ag. Head of Corporate Affairs and Public Relations; Mr. Francis Ohene and Mr. Saviour Ahiataku, President and Financial Secretary of the Central University Alumni Association respectively.
The Design Thinking and Innovation Hub (D-Hub) at the University of Cape Coast and their partners, the British Council and the National Service Authority deserve commendation for initiating this relevant conversation and action for actors in the Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) space and beyond.
