From Samuel Akapule, Bolgatanga
The Electrical and Electronics Department of the Bolgatanga Technical University (BTU) in the Upper East Region, has hosted a seminar aimed at enhancing student employability and bridging the gap between academic training and industry practice.
The event, funded the European Uniion with technical support by the United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF) under the EU-Ghana Pact for Skills: Support Tertiary Education for Sustainable Employability, which was part of the university’s broader effort to improve graduate readiness and connect students with the latest trends in the electrical and energy sectors in line with the project objectives.
The seminar which attracted over 160 students and nine faculty members, provided a platform for the students to engage with industry professionals, learn about real-world challenges, and discover career opportunities in the electrical engineering field.
It covered various topics such as power systems, renewable energy integration, energy efficiency, and smart grid technologies. Speakers also discussed the challenges of meeting the growing energy demand and transitioning to renewable energy.
The Area Engineer of Northern Electricity Distribution Company (NEDCO), Ing. Ben Kwofie remarked, “The demand for renewable energy solutions is growing rapidly, and the energy sector needs engineers who can innovate and adapt.”
He shared insights on current issues within Ghana’s energy sector and shared with the valuable guidance on the competencies required for a successful career in Electrical Engineering.The Area Engineer (AE) highlighted the importance of industry-academia collaboration, noting, “The future of the energy sector relies on partnerships between educational institutions and industry professionals.”
In addition to industry professionals, faculty members provided insights into academic and professional development. Students learned about scholarship opportunities, professional associations, and how artificial intelligence and automation are shaping the future of Electrical Engineering.
Ms. Millicent Puruseh, Senior Assistant Guidance and Counselling Coordinator at BTU and Lead of Career Services for the project, discussed how the university is enhancing its digital competencies and fostering greater collaboration with industry. She revealed that BTU plans to organize more seminars, job fairs, industrial tours, mentorships and internships to strengthen students’ career readiness.
Mr. Alexis Adugdaa Ayamdor, Project Lead, shared that the Integrated Digital Competency and Jobs Accelerator Project (IDAP) share the broader objectives of the EU-funded project being implemented by UNCDF. The project aims to enhance tertiary education’s role in improving graduate employability, particularly in the green and digital sectors. Through strengthened coordination mechanisms, increased digital skills training, and the provision of acceleration and incubation services, the initiative seeks to bridge the gap between education and industry needs in Ghana.
The seminar also offered students the opportunity to network and ask questions about current developments in the industry. Many were eager to explore career pathways, internship opportunities, and mentorship options within the sector.
The seminar also successfully strengthened the connection between academia and industry, providing students with practical insights into the Electrical Engineering profession.