Ghana (Accra Technical University) Towards Effective Employer Mployer Engagement in Higher Education: Accra Technical University Launch Automobile Programme Advisory Committee

Accra Technical University has launched an Automobile Programme Advisory Committee to help close the gap between industry expectations and academia. The inauguration occurred on Monday, 19th September 2022, at the University Council Chamber.

The nine-member committee comprises the Dean of Engineering, the Head of the Mechanical Engineering Department, and representatives from the Mechanical Engineering Department, Japan Motors Ghana, Silver Star Auto Limited, Toyota Ghana, Kantanka Group of Companies, Universal Motors, and the ATU Alumni Association. It is to, among other things, incorporate current dynamics into the curriculum, assist in recruitment as well as tracer studies, partner and collaborate with industry, and provide
public awareness of the Department of Mechanical Engineering.

Speaking at the ceremony, the chairman, Pro-Vice-Chancellor of Accra Technical University, Prof. Amevi Acakpovi, who represented the Vice-Chancellor, lauded the Department of Mechanical Engineering for the initiative. He added that the committee would serve as an advisory body to the department to aid in instituting new techniques to equip our students to succeed in the industry.

In his remarks, Dr. Peter Constantinou, an IFC expert on employer engagement, stressed the importance of investing in the lives of young people. He advised parties to work harmoniously with graduate students who can measure up to industry’s expectations. He added that preparing students for the world of work is not easy when the industry is looking to employ graduates that they do not have to retrain. “When students are given the requisite skills, it, in turn, builds a better school, a better community, and a better world”, he said.

Representatives from industry added their voices by citing cases where students are retrained because they lacked the basic requirements of their employers. They pleaded with the University to take their recommendations seriously to drive the connection with industry successfully, to help students succeed.

Deans from the faculties of Engineering, Built Environment, and Applied Sciences, Director of Research Innovation, Publication and Technology Transfer, and Heads of Departments from Mechanical Engineering and Electrical Electronic Engineering also graced the occasion.

The ceremony ended with the Programme Advisory Committee’s pledge to do their best and fulfil their obligation.