By Frank Kwame Abbor
Ho, Aug. 26, GNA – The Chartered Institute of Human Resource Management (CIHRM) Ghana has officially launched its Volta/Oti Chapter with a regional conference in Ho.
It was on the theme: “The HR Professional: The Pivot of Industrial Growth.”
Dr. Francis Eduku, Chief Executive Officer of CIHRM, said the establishment of the chapter marked a new era of professional collaboration, innovation, and capacity building in human resource practice in the two regions.
He emphasized that the HR profession had evolved into a strategic partner of business, stressing that unity among practitioners would propel the chapter to greater heights.
“HR professionals are no longer just administrators, we are business partners to every organization,” he stated.
Dr. Eduku noted that with the growing emergence of Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Institute was reviewing its curriculum to ensure that members were adequately equipped to remain relevant. He advised HR professionals in the job market to embrace technology.
“AI is not here to take away our jobs, but to complement what we do. Skills and experience will remain irreplaceable,” he said.
He explained that HR’s contribution to Ghana’s development must extend beyond the organizational level to the national level, especially as the country prepares to implement President John Dramani Mahama’s 24-Hour Economy initiative.
“How can we achieve a 24-hour economy without a 24-hour talent framework? We need a workforce that is agile, resilient, multi-skilled, and committed to lifelong learning,” Dr. Eduku told the gathering.
Mr. James Gunu, Volta Regional Minister and Special Guest of Honour, said HR professionals were vital to shaping the region’s workforce and supporting national growth strategies.
He noted that their expertise was key to realizing the government’s 2025 Budget and the 24-Hour Economy vision
He congratulated the newly inaugurated executives led by Chapter Chairman, Mr. Stanley Akabua, and expressed confidence that the chapter would become “a hub for innovation, ethical practice, and professional excellence.”
Delivering a keynote, Madam Cynthia Mawulawoe Kudowu, Chief Operating Officer of Perbi Cubs Africa and Founder of HR Network Africa, urged HR practitioners to be more proactive and visible in their organizations.
“HR must not only be associated with dismissals. We must be the first to speak and lead conversations,” she advised.
She noted that Ghana currently needed about 11 million HR practitioners to effectively serve institutions, yet only about 20 trained professionals were available. She encouraged more women to take advantage of opportunities in the sector.
Rev. Dr. Jerry H. Wedanu, Ex-officio and Ho Centre Coordinator, described the launch as a defining moment.
“This is not just a formality; it is a bold step forward in advancing the practice and influence of HR across the Volta and Oti regions,” he said.
He added that the chapter would serve as a hub for knowledge sharing, professional development, ethical leadership, and collaboration across industries.
Reports from the Ho Centre showed that the CIHRM had enrolled 64 students in its certification programme, with 18 having graduated into Associate Membership and six attaining Chartered status. Another five are preparing to qualify by the end of the year.
The Centre also achieved a 25 per cent increase in enrollment, produced the Overall National Best Student in the July 2025 examinations, and continues to support staff development, mentorship, and exam preparation programmes.
Despite these gains, the Centre cited limited funds, inadequate training equipment, and difficulties in mobilizing weekday students as challenges.
Upcoming plans include a visibility drive across major towns, continuous professional development training in October 2025, and mentorship programmes for new HR practitioners.
The launch ended with renewed commitment by members to champion people-centered policies, equity, decent work, and national development through effective human resource practice.
GNA
Edited by Maxwell Awumah/Christian Akorlie