By Erica Apeatua Addo
Tarkwa (W/R), Sept 9, GNA-The Exit in Readiness Mentorship Programme held annually for final year students at the University of Mines and Technology (UMaT), Tarkwa in the Western Region has empowered more students for professional success.
Since its inception in 2021, the programme has served as a beacon of guidance for many young graduates who have successfully completed their courses.
The insights shared and relationships built through these mentorship sessions continued to shape the career journeys of many who have passed through this noble university.
Addressing students and industry experts at the fifth edition of the programme, Mr Abraham Osei Badu, the Acting Managing Director (MD) of AngloGold Ashanti Iduapriem Mine, lauded their partners at UMaT, Ladies in Mining and Allied Professions-Ghana (LiMAP-Gh) and the Sustainability team of Iduapriem Mine, for their tireless efforts in bringing this impactful initiative to life every year.
According to him, their unweaving commitment to youth development was truly commendable. The theme for this year’s event was, “The future of jobs: Redefining Work, Skills, and Purpose.”
Mr Badu said the future belonged to those who were skilled and focused, not just certificate driven, hence they must identify and develop both technical and soft skills because it was relevant across industries.
“This starts with reflecting on what you are naturally good at, evaluating how those strengths apply in the current job market, and identifying which new capabilities are necessary for future relevance” he stated
Mr Badu entreated the students to embrace online learning, attend workshops, search for mentors, and consistently upskill themselves in areas like data analysis, communication, digital literacy, emotional intelligence, and critical thinking, adding, “These skills are increasingly non-negotiable in every industry”.
Additionally, he said the students needed to develop problem solving skills, actively reflecting on how their knowledge and training could address real-world challenges.
Whether it was through volunteering, interning, building projects, or offering solutions to local problems, Mr Badu implored the students to build a personal brand around their ability to deliver meaningful results.
“The practical session on CV writing, job search strategies, salary negotiations, and emotional intelligence are not just items on an agenda. They are tools designed to help you bridge the gap between your academic experience and the professional world you are about to enter” he indicated
The acting managing director asked the students to interact with facilitators, connect with industry professionals, and reflect deeply on their personal and professional journey ahead.
He encouraged them to use this programme as a starting point to build a strong foundation in their values, purpose, and evolving skillsets as that would inspire them to lead, adapt, and flourish in future.
GNA
Edited by Justina Paaga/George-Ramsey Benamba