UGBS FINSA CELEBRATES 2025 FINSA WEEK
University of Ghana Business School (UGBS) Finance Students Association (FINSA) organised a two-day seminar, including a professional summit and CV Review, from 8th to 9th July to celebrate 2025 FINSA Week, a week-long celebration at R. S. Amegashie Hall. The seminar, under the leadership of Priscillia Ogor, President of FINSA, bridged the gap between classroom knowledge and real-world application.
Prof. Vera Fiador, Head of the Department of Finance, underscored that technical knowledge will open doors, and professionalism will keep them open. “Professionalism is integrity, accountability, excellence, and respect,” she stated. Prof. Fiador challenged students to cultivate three core abilities: adaptability in a rapidly changing financial landscape shaped by blockchain and AI, critical thinking to question assumptions, and purpose to align professional work with meaningful values. “Finance is meant to make an impact,” she said. “Be that changemaker. Because beyond the books lies a world that needs your talent, your integrity, and your vision.”
Prof. Fiador challenged the notion that you don’t need formal education to become wealthy. She clarified that while ideas are not limited to those with degrees, the ability to execute complex ideas consistently and sustainably requires advanced knowledge and professional competence. “Even successful entrepreneurs who didn’t finish school still rely on qualified professionals to help run their businesses effectively”.
Prof. Edward Asiedu, Department of Finance, UGBS, challenged students to see their time at the university as an opportunity not only to earn a degree but to build networks, refine their skills, and develop the mindset needed for lifelong growth. “Be intentional about every connection you make and every skill you develop. That is how you set yourself up to thrive.” Prof. Asiedu emphasised that soft skills are as important as technical knowledge in the workplace. He reminded students that everyone graduates with the same qualification, but what distinguishes them is the skills they develop. “Your communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills will set you apart.” Prof. Asiedu pointed out that reputation matters. “Your attitude, your work ethic, your character are what people remember,” he said.
Dr. Emmanuel Joel Aikins Abakah, Department of Finance, UGBS, explained that a strong grasp of theory is critical for navigating the complex world of finance. “You need a solid foundation to understand and question how things work.” Dr. Abakah emphasised the importance of building soft skills, communication, emotional intelligence, adaptability, and relationship management, all crucial traits in the professional world. He warned students not to damage their image, as networking and personal branding begin right on campus. “Your degree will get you in, but your attitude is what will keep you,” he advised. Dr. Abakah cautioned students not to rely solely on their grades. “Having a first-class degree doesn’t mean you’ll excel automatically,” he said. “You need discipline and the ability to apply what you’ve learned.”
Dr. Patrick Asuming, Department of Finance, UGBS, challenged students to see their time on campus not just as an academic pursuit but as a critical period to develop the personal and professional qualities that will shape their entire lives. Dr. Asuming underscored that university is the beginning of real independence and that navigating it successfully requires much more than studying for exams. “The university is not just about books,” he explained. “You are here to learn how to live, including how to manage your own emotions, how to deal with difficult people, and how to refine your leadership skills.”
Mr. Paul Yidana, Application Developer at First Atlantic Bank, reminded students that the theories and formulas they sometimes dismiss as abstract will one day be their most important tools in their careers. Mr. Yidana affirmed that finance is a rewarding career but warned of its ethical demands. He urged them to never compromise ethics for short-term gain, as their reputation is their most valuable asset. “If you are blacklisted for unethical behavior, it spreads. The finance industry in Ghana is small,” he cautioned. Mr. Yidana encouraged future finance professionals to prioritise integrity, especially when handling money, and to avoid the temptation of quick wealth.
Mr. Caleb Shalley, CEO of Dimple Innovation Network International, stated that traditional career paths are no longer the only option. “Flexible work models, remote opportunities, and short-term freelance projects are replacing the typical nine-to-five job.” Mr. Shalley pointed to new developments in fintech, blockchain, and artificial intelligence as key forces shaping the future of finance. Quoting a PwC report, he stated that by 2030, 30% of all financial transactions in Ghana are expected to be automated. Rather than fearing automation or artificial intelligence, Mr. Shalley encouraged students to view these tools as a means to make their work easier, provided they are willing to learn and adapt. He encouraged students to define their reputation early by understanding their unique value, what makes them stand out, and by building their skills, values, and experiences. Mr. Shalley advised students to map out their skills and to talk to professionals in fields they are interested in. Also, He urged them to be intentional, strategic, and proactive about building a career.
Mr. Kwesi Otoo Mensah, Crypto Portfolio Manager, mentioned that blockchain and cryptocurrency may often seem like overhyped, but it is transforming industries, and Ghana must not be left behind. However, Mr. Mensah cautioned that greed remains the biggest risk in blockchain technology. He advised the students to diversify their investments, never borrow to invest, and avoid the lure of easy riches. Mr. Mensah encouraged students to take short courses in blockchain and cryptocurrency fundamentals, many of which are free online through platforms like Coursera. He called for the integration of blockchain studies into the curriculum, so Ghanaian students are not left behind. “The opportunities are endless, and over the next 10 to 15 years, there will be so much work with blockchain”.
According to Mrs. Karley Mettle Tutu, Communications Consultant, your brand, your identity, and reputation are a passport to opportunity. “It grants you access. The experiences and results you achieve along the way are your visa stamps.” Mrs. Tutu challenged them to take ownership of their brand early, think carefully about how they want to be perceived, and be intentional about the image they project. She pointed out that branding is not static and must always evolve. Mrs. Tutu added that, “Branding is not just about looking good on paper or online. It’s about living your values every day. The little habits you practice become your identity, and your identity drives your results.” Mrs. Tutu emphasised that career success is not automatic; it requires commitment, adaptability, and a willingness to improve continuously. “If you don’t find opportunities in the spaces you expect, learn something new or create your own.”
Mrs. Rita Adu-Boateng, Marketing Executive, Old Mutual, presented on building a successful corporate career. She stated that in building a successful career, it’s not only what you know, but how you carry yourself, how you connect with others, and how you consistently add value. Mrs. Adu-Boateng said young professionals must create their career maps to avoid drifting aimlessly. She advised students to aim for the best possible academic performance, as it remains a key requirement for many employers. Mrs. Adu-Boateng cautioned against rejecting opportunities simply because they don’t match one’s field of study, but be open to learning. Mrs. Adu-Boateng admitted she once underestimated the power of professional relationships because she believed her work would speak for her. She encouraged students to network because those relationships often lead to unseen opportunities. Mrs. Adu-Boateng warned students to be cautious about corporate politics and avoid becoming known as the person who speaks for everyone’s grievances. “Corporate is not a place for unnecessary confrontation,” she cautioned.
Mr. Joseph Aboagye Asante, Human Capital & Admin Officer, Databank, mentioned that a polished CV can open doors, but only if it is honest and relevant. He cautioned that exaggerating skills or experiences on a CV can cost applicants job opportunities and damage their credibility. When listing skills, Mr. Asante advised students to be realistic about their proficiency. He also warned against sharing referees’ details without their permission before listing them. Mr. Asante urged students to take advantage of resources on campus, like the Careers and Counseling Center, where they can receive feedback on their CVs. “No matter what, be truthful about your skills and experiences,” he advised. “Even if you don’t have everything a job requires, your honesty and attitude can still open doors.”Aside from the seminar, students embarked on an industrial tour at GB Foods and Data Bank and also engaged in a Senior High School Financial Literacy Awareness Tour.