Cape Coast: The Cape Coast Technical University (CCTU) has launched a six-course honours certificate programme to equip students with essential soft skills to complement their technical training.
According to Ghana News Agency, the programme is designed to enhance the personal and professional capacity of students and produce industry-ready graduates who are prepared to lead with integrity, communicate clearly, and present their ideas confidently. The curriculum includes courses in Confidence Building and Public Speaking, Social Media Marketing, Organisation and Leadership, CV Writing and Interviewing Skills, Computer Skills, and Etiquette, Grooming and Personal Branding.
The programme will be piloted over a six-week period with 30 students selected from various departments. Following the pilot, it will become a mandatory course for all students. Professor Kwaku Adutwum Ayim Boakye, Vice Chancellor of the University, emphasized the importance of soft skills and integrity in the current job market, noting that while academic excellence is valuable, employers prioritize graduates with integrity, confidence, honesty, creativity, leadership skills, and innovation.
Professor Boakye explained that the programme aims to fully develop students, giving them a competitive advantage and setting them apart from their peers. He noted that feedback from industry players indicated that while CCTU graduates are technically competent, they lack industry readiness, particularly in appearance, presentations, and communication.
The Vice Chancellor stated that the programme would be integrated into the academic curriculum and become a graduation requirement. He also mentioned that a directive on dress code would be issued soon. Professor Boakye highlighted the University's commitment to holistic education and encouraged students to strive for excellence to help CCTU progress from "good to great."
Mrs. Anita Ohene-Darko, Head of the Counselling Unit at CCTU, emphasized the programme's importance in empowering students to reach their full potential. She advised students to take the course seriously and attend all sessions.
Professor Sophia Pardi Ocran, Dean of Students Affairs at CCTU, remarked that the initiative aligns with the school's strategic plan to equip students with a range of skills to enhance their employability. She added that the programme would improve students' career prospects through effective branding and online presence, and better prepare them for the job market with organizational and leadership skills, as well as improved computer literacy.
