UGBS Launches 46th Management Week Celebration with Discussions on Developing Talent for a Digital and Sustainable Future
University of Ghana Business School (UGBS) launched its 46th Management Week Celebration under the theme, “Developing Talent for a Digital and Sustainable Future: HR Strategies for Ghana and Beyond.” The launch event took place on 22nd June 2026 at the R.S. Amegashie Hall and featured panel discussions and interactive sessions that gave students the opportunity to engage with alumni and industry professionals on preparing young talents for a digital and sustainable future. The event brought together faculty members, staff, alumni, and students and was moderated by Emmanuel Broni Bediako (Esq.), a lecturer at the UGBS Department of Organisation and Human Resource Management.
Prof. Albert Ahenkan launching the 46th Management Week Celebration
Prof. Albert Ahenkan, Head of the Department of Public Administration delivered the welcome address on behalf of Prof. Ernest Yaw Tweneboah-Koduah, Dean of UGBS. In his remarks, he noted that the celebration served as a platform for learning, networking, innovation, leadership development, and meaningful engagement between academia, industry, and society. He emphasised that “learning does not only occur in the classroom but also through collaboration, interaction, and networks.” The ceremony continued with a panel discussion moderated by Dr. Grace Afari Mensah and featured industry professionals alongside a student leader. Panel members included Mr. Peter Yaw Bosrotsi, Head of People and Culture (P&C) – Business Partnering Unit at GCB PLC; Mr. Gilbert Kpelim-Etime Mombazaa, Core Network Manager at AT Ghana; Prof. Emmanuel Awuni Kolog, Associate Professor of Data and Analytics at UGBS and Chief Data Scientist at the Bank of Ghana; and Mr. Richmond Larbi Ofori, 68th UGSRC President. The discussion focused on the need for universities to redesign curricula to incorporate skills such as creative thinking and problem-solving while strengthening industry engagement through internships and practical projects.
Speakers for the 1st panel discussion
Mr. Kpelim-Etime Mombazaa stressed the importance of aligning university curricula with industry demands and recommended making internships and industry projects compulsory components of higher education to provide students with practical experience. Prof. Emmanuel Awuni Kolog highlighted the importance of implementation and the growing role of artificial intelligence in digital skills development. He further explained the role of public institutions such as the Bank of Ghana in providing funding and support for academia and the private sector. He also spoke about the importance of co-creating curricula with industry to bridge the gap between academia and practice. Speaking on HR analytics and the application of artificial intelligence, Mr. Peter Bosrotsi explained that HR analytics enables organisations to make objective decisions in recruitment, talent development, and performance management. Mr. Richmond Larbi Ofori explained the importance of digital marketing and called on university management to integrate digital skills into the academic framework. He also stressed the need for continuous student training and skills development to bridge the gap between industry and academia.
Another discussion featured members of the UGBS 2001 alumni group, including Mr. Yaw Owusu Brefo, President of the 2001 Year Group; Mr. Linus Kumi, Head of Corporate Banking at GCB; Mr. Augustine Oppong; and Mrs. Naa Adorkor Cudjoe. Mr. Yaw Owusu Brefo introduced his colleagues and advised students to be mindful of their social media presence, noting that embassies and employers increasingly review online activity in assessing credibility. The discussion further centred on career development, financial planning, and personal growth.
Speakers for the 2nd panel discussion
Mr. Linus Kumi encouraged students to balance immediate financial needs with long-term career and financial goals. He noted that organisations often retain individuals who demonstrate commitment, a strong work ethic, and a positive attitude, stressing the importance of distinguishing oneself through excellence and dedication. Mr. Augustine Oppong encouraged students to cultivate an entrepreneurial mindset and consider establishing their own businesses. He also spoke extensively on the values of diligence and hard work. Mrs. Naa Adorkor Cudjoe shared her personal and professional journey and emphasised the importance of commitment and dedication in achieving career growth. Delivering the closing remarks, Prof. Amponsah Tawiah expressed gratitude to faculty members, staff, alumni, and students for contributing to the success of the programme.