The University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR) successfully concluded its two-day career fair, “Energizing Tomorrow: Sustainable Careers,” held from July 3 to July 4, 2024, at the newly inaugurated Bank of Ghana Auditorium. An aptitude test was organised on July 5, 2024 to cap off the experience. Organized by the Department of Petroleum and Natural Gas Engineering on behalf of the Schools of Energy, Engineering and Sciences, the event aimed to equip students with the knowledge and skills to navigate the job market and build fulfilling careers in the energy and natural resources sector.
Opening the Fair, the Head of Department of Petroleum and Natural Gas Engineering, Dr Yaw Akyampon Boakye-Ansah, highlighted the need for industry-academia partnership and the relevance of such partnerships for student development. He highlighted the importance of students to participate in these Fairs in order to acquire the skills relevant towards employment in the industry and in academia.
Dr Yaw Akyampon Boakye-Ansah
The Chairman of the programme, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Elvis Asare-Bediako highlighted the positive feedback from industry partners who have collaborated with UENR students during internships. He expressed his gratitude to Ghana Gas Company for their continued support of UENR’s initiatives.
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Elvis Asare-Bediako
The Head of Department of Renewable Energy Engineering, Ing. Prof. Nana Sarfo Agyemang Derkyi, who also represented the Dean of School of Energy, urged students to absorb the valuable advice provided throughout the event, emphasising that excelling in their careers requires more than just top academic qualifications.
Prof. Nana Sarfo Agyemang Derkyi
The fair’s theme resonated through a collaborative effort with Ghana National Gas Company. Mr. Mohammed Alhassan Muftahu, an Assistant Manager in Operations representing the company, offered deep insights into the operations and work environment within the gas industry, with a specific focus on Ghana National Gas Company. He highlighted the skillset required to work in the gas processing plants.
Assistant Manager in Operation-Ghana Gas, Mr. Mohammed Alhassan Muftahu
UENR’s commitment to student development was evident with the presence of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Elvis Asare-Bediako and Ag. Pro-Vice-Chancellor Prof. John K.M. Kuwornu. Many other key staff of the University participated in the Fair in various roles. Present were Prof. Samuel Gyasi, Prof. Emmanuel Nyantakyi, Dr. Anthony Baidoo, Dr. Samson Wireko-Gyebi representing various capacities in the academic faculty. Key administrative personnel including Mr. Hayford Asare, Dr. George Anane, Dr. John Annan, Mr. Baffour Antoa Mensah and Mr. David Twumasi-Ankrah also shared their invaluable experience.
The Career Fair featured a rich programme of educational and informative activities, including panel discussions and presentations by career experts. Key topics covered were the importance of academia-industry partnerships, diversifying talents, tips for securing interviews, internships, and job opportunities, and encouraging local participation in the industry.
Students gained invaluable insights and lessons over the three days. Key takeaways included the importance of leveraging their cognitive abilities and continuous learning for broader career opportunities, monetising skills, mastering soft skills alongside academic knowledge, and recognising the importance of values taught outside the classroom. Additionally, building a strong CV, interview skills, and prioritising practical experiences through fieldwork and mentorship were emphasised.
The Q&A session provided students with crucial interview tips, enhancing their ability to effectively answer questions and secure job placements. By the program’s conclusion, students emerged equipped with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to pursue careers within real-world industries.
The 2024 UENR Career Fair served as a vital platform for students to bridge the gap between academia and industry, preparing them for a bright and sustainable future in the energy and natural resources sector.
