Mr. Samuel Amanor, Founder and President, BlueSPACE Africa, has urged graduates to design solutions to tackle Ghana’s problems.
He said graduates were uniquely positioned to contribute to solving Ghana’s problems due to their specialised skills, creative mindset, and practical approach to problem-solving.
Mr. Amanor was speaking at the graduation ceremony of the Design and Technology Institute’s (DTI) class of 2023/24 in Accra.
The theme for the ceremony was “Lifelong Learning for Success in Today’s World: Leading with innovation and integrity.”
The graduation ceremony celebrated the achievements of 291 graduates, acquiring industry-relevant skills in digital technology, advanced manufacturing, and green industries.
Mr. Amanor said the Institute had the potential to change the trajectory of Ghana’s development, and that the graduates were in the perfect position to lead that change.
He said by taking initiatives and working collaboratively with other sectors, the graduates could help Ghana navigate its future, drive economic growth, improve living standards, and achieve a more sustainable and equitable society.
“Your works can leave a lasting impact not only on the country’s problems but also on the global stage, showcasing Ghana’s innovation and leadership in the design and technology sectors.”
“These abilities are exactly what Ghana needs to solve its most pressing challenges,” he added.
Mr. Amanor advised the graduates to exhibit all levels of adaptability, innovation, integrity, collaboration, hard work, resilience, digital literacy, giving back, vision, humility and celebration as principles for success.
Ms. Constance Elizabeth Swaniker, Founder and President, DTI, said a recent 2024 World Bank report on transforming education for inclusive growth in Africa emphasised the transformative role of education and achieving inclusive growth.
She said the report highlighted the need for demand driven industry relevant skills to equip Africa’s growing youth population for productivity and economic development.
He, therefore called for deliberate investment to break the cycle of poverty and boost prosperity across the continent.
Ms. Swaniker said since the inception of DTI, five years ago, their mission to empower learners with industry relevant knowledge and expertise had yielded impressive results.
She said the Institute had expanded from 33 to 341 learners in five years, with a significant increase in female enrollment from 30 per cent to 51 per cent, demonstrating commitment to creating opportunities for females to excel in traditionally male dominated trades and sectors.
Ms. Swaniker said the DTI had formed strategic partnerships with over 87 industry partners, providing internship and job opportunities for their graduates.
She said the campuses had expanded significantly from one to five, all in the East legon enclave, and that the Institute was also forging ahead to construct a 12-acre campus at Berekuso to accommodate the total capacity of 1500 learners.
The Founder urged the graduates to let the values of quality and accountability guide their decisions, ensuring that their contribution to the labour market meet and exceed expectations in a world that demanded adaptability and ingenuity.
“Let integrity be your compass, accountability be your shield, quality be your standard and innovation your driving force.”
“Africa is counting on you, you are the generation that will redefine our continent’s narrative so embrace this responsibility with courage and may you seek greater heights in your endeavors,” she added.
Ms. Anita Yen was adjudged the overall best student, while Ms. Agnes Anakwara won the Edna Swaniker Award for the best female welder with Mr. Jerry Osei winning the ASCO Award for the best male welder.
