Mr Haruna Iddrisu, the Minister of Education, has advised graduates of Accra Technical University (ATU) to continue to foster a culture of innovation and ensure that the knowledge acquired remained relevant and transformative.
“Your education has given you the tools, but it is the vision, values and principles that will define your legacy.
“Dream boldly, work diligently and never stop learning,” he advised.
This was in a speech read on behalf of the Minister at the 24th Congregation ceremony of ATU.
The ceremony saw students graduating in Diploma, Higher National Diploma, Ghana Armed Forces Certificate/Diploma/Advanced Diplomas, and Bachelor of Technology programmes.
Out of 6,976 total graduands, 5,829 (83.56 per cent) were awarded their certificates, while 1,147 (16.44 per cent) were not awarded.
He said the ceremony was not just a celebration of academic excellence but a testament to the power of determination and the transformative impact of education.
“You have demonstrated resilience, curiosity and the ability to adapt in a world that is evolving at an extraordinary pace.
“Your journey was not without challenges, but through your commitment, you have overcome obstacles and emerged victorious.”
He said the government’s goal was to move beyond traditional ways of learning and foster critical thinking, creativity and problem solving to meet the needs of the evolving job market.
He said the recent Ghana Education Forum revealed interesting discussions on social financing of education, the development of infrastructure, among others, which call for urgent attention.
“We must create an environment where students can thrive, and this requires sustainable investment, innovative solutions and stronger partnerships with government, the private sector and government organisations.
“Our graduates must also be advocates for continuous learning and improvement, pushing for excellence, not just in your personal genius, but in the systems that shape our future.”
Mr Iddrisu urged the graduates to embrace the future with confidence and a sense of purpose, adding that the world was filled with opportunities but also with complexities.
Mr Austin Gamey, Labour Expert, urged the graduates to support the 24-hour economy to provide jobs for the youth.
He expressed concerns about the poor leadership style in managing state organisations.
“We deliberately collapse companies built under Dr Kwame Nkrumah through poor management ethics and poor productivity.
“Ghana is one nation that is very much unproductive in many ways, at the workplace in particular,” he said.
Professor Amevi Acakpovi, the Acting Vice-Chancellor, ATU, said the University was in the process of signing a memorandum of understanding with international partners, including California Community Colleges, to promote knowledge exchange and digital education through the Pan-African Virtual College.
He advised the graduates to lead with integrity and create opportunities for others.
“If you are in technology, use it to bridge gaps and solve real-world problems. If you are in education, inspire and empower the next generation. If you are in service, be the voice for those who need it most,” he said.
In all, 111 graduates were awarded for their distinguished performances in their various disciplines.
Mr Samuel Dawson won the overall best graduating Bachelor of Technology, accountancy programme, while Ms Ali Rukayatu won the best graduating female student in the accountancy programme.
They commended the lecturers and all who helped in their achievements and pledged to impart their knowledge for national development.
GNA
