Felicity Nelson, Deputy Chief Executive Officer in charge of Operations at the Ghana Tourism Development Company (GTDC), has challenged graduates of BlueCrest University College to translate their skills into tangible impact. Speaking at the institution's 26th Convocation, Nelson emphasized that qualifications alone are insufficient in today's world. She posed a critical question: "What is the value of a skill if it does not solve a problem, create an opportunity, improve a system, or make somebody's life better?"
Nelson noted that Ghana is endowed with immense potential but must learn to harness and deploy its assets productively. She cited the tourism sector as a prime example, where assets must be transformed into viable products. She shared the success story of GTDC's "Accra by Night" product, which she personally promoted door-to-door during its early stages, and has since become the company's most successful product with over 30 editions in just over a year.
On behalf of the Vice Chancellor of the University of Education, Winneba, Prof. Imurana Awaisu Braimah acknowledged the long-standing affiliation between UEW and BlueCrest University College. He described BlueCrest as a credible partner and emphasized the significance of the convocation theme, "From Skills to Impact." Braimah urged graduates to move beyond academic achievements and make a meaningful impact in their families, communities, and the nation.
Acting Rector of BlueCrest University College, Thomas Buabeng Assan, encouraged graduates to shift their focus from seeking employment to creating opportunities. He noted that the world is rapidly evolving, driven by technological advancements, artificial intelligence, and digitization. Assan urged graduates to adapt to these changes and continuously update their skills to remain relevant.
Assan emphasized that entrepreneurship involves identifying possibilities where others see problems, and leadership is about taking responsibility, not just holding a position. He encouraged graduates to be innovative, entrepreneurial, technologically inclined, and ethical, and to consider whether their work creates value, improves lives, protects the environment, and contributes to Ghana's development.
The convocation ceremony also saw the recognition of outstanding students, including Grace Sey-Ansah, who graduated with a BA in Mass Communication and Journalism and was named Valedictorian for the class of 2025. The event marked a significant milestone for the graduates, who are now poised to make their mark in various fields.
Key advice from the speakers to the graduates included being resourceful, creative, and proactive in driving sustainable development, and turning their skills into impactful solutions that address real-world problems. The graduates were also encouraged to continuously learn, adapt, and innovate to succeed in a rapidly changing world.
Key points
- BlueCrest University College graduates urged to apply skills for real impact
- Graduates encouraged to be innovative, entrepreneurial, and technologically inclined
- Event marks significant milestone for graduates poised to make their mark in various fields
