By Kodjo Adams
Accra, Sept. 21, GNA – Mr Haruna Iddrisu, the Minister of Education, has urged the African University of Communications and Business (AUCB) to deepen its focus on artificial intelligence (AI), entrepreneurship, research, and innovation to prepare young people for the rapidly changing world of work.
He said the rapid developments in those technological advancements, including automation, financial technology, and new media, were transforming the skills required in the modern economy.
The Minister made the call in a speech read on his behalf at the investiture of Mr Frank B. Adu Jr., the new and first Chancellor of AUCB in Accra on Friday.
The institution was transitioned from the African University College of Communications to a fully fledged University after receiving a Presidential Charter.
Mr Iddrisu described the appointment of the Chancellor as more than an honorary position, saying the role comes with responsibilities to provide counsel to the University, strengthen its links with wider society, and serve as its ambassador.
He highlighted Mr Adu Jnr.’s background in banking, business, corporate governance, education, and community service as relevant to AUCB’s academic orientation, which combined communications, business, and professional development.
The Minister expressed confidence that the Chancellor’s experience would support the University’s efforts to develop ethical and forward-looking leaders in communications and business.
Universities, he said, should produce graduates who are not only academically qualified but also innovative, adaptable, ethical, and capable of applying knowledge to solve practical problems.
Mr Iddrisu encouraged stronger University-industry partnerships through internships, applied research, entrepreneurship initiatives, and graduate employment opportunities.
He reaffirmed government’s recognition of private tertiary institutions as important partners in developing Ghana’s human capital, as complemented public institutions by expanding access to higher education and creating additional pathways for students to acquire skills needed for the world of work.
“AUCB’s new status should, therefore, be viewed not only as an achievement but also as an opportunity to raise the institution’s ambitions and strengthen its contribution to Ghana’s development,” the minister said.
He encouraged the new Chancellor to use his professional experience to promote stronger industry-university relationships, mentorship, entrepreneurship, and institutional partnerships.
Mr Kojo Yankah, the founder of the AUCB, described the new Chancellor as a distinguished and forward-looking personality capable of advancing the University’s mission.
He reflected on the institution’s 24-year journey, tracing its origins to the establishment of the African Institute of Journalism and Communications, which later evolved into the African University College of Communications.
He said the baobab tree, prominently featured at the center of the University’s logo, was deliberately chosen as a symbol of its identity and aspirations.
The Founder said the baobab, often described as the “Tree of Life,” represented nourishment, versatility, health, strength, longevity, and resilience.
Nii Tackie Teiko Tsuro II, the Ga Mantse, in a speech read on his behalf, urged the Chancellor to provide visionary leadership focused on academic excellence, innovation, and service to society.
He described the investiture as more than a ceremonial occasion, saying the event represented the University’s confidence in the Chancellor’s ability to provide leadership, wisdom, and direction.
GNA
Edited by Agnes Boye-Doe
Reporter: Kodjo Adams Email:[email protected]