The Director for Innovation at the Ministry of Communications, Digital Technology and Innovations, Emmanuel Ofori, has urged students to move beyond theoretical knowledge and develop practical digital skills, stressing that data is becoming one of the world’s most valuable resources.
Speaking as the keynote speaker representing the Sector Minister at the 46th Management Week Celebration of the University of Ghana Business School (UGBS) on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, Ofori warned students that relying solely on theoretical knowledge could leave them disconnected from the rapidly evolving job market.
The celebration was held under the theme, “Developing Talent for a Digital and Sustainable Future: HR Strategies for Ghana and Beyond.”
“Students must graduate not only with theoretical knowledge, You will be placed out of the job market,” Ofori warned.
“Where we are going, data will be the gold, and everything will revolve around data.”
He emphasised that preparing a workforce for a digital future is no longer optional but an urgent national priority, arguing that a country’s greatest resource is its people and the knowledge they possess.
“The most successful economies in the world today are not necessarily those that are endowed with the greatest natural wealth. They are the economies that have consistently invested in research, technology, innovation, and human capital development,” he stated.
Ofori therefore challenged young people to rethink their career aspirations, urging them to focus on creating solutions and opportunities rather than relying solely on traditional employment.
“Do not simply aspire to become a job seeker. Rather, aspire to become a problem solver, an innovator, entrepreneur, and a transformation leader,” he advised.
He further noted that employers are increasingly looking beyond academic qualifications and technical expertise, placing greater emphasis on soft skills and emotional intelligence.
“Organisations today are seeking employees who can think critically, solve problems creatively, communicate effectively, and adapt quickly to changing environments. Technical expertise alone is no longer sufficient,” he noted.
He added that employers are increasingly seeking individuals who can combine digital competence with leadership, emotional intelligence, collaboration and strategic thinking.
Highlighting government interventions aimed at developing digital skills, Ofori pointed to the One Billion Coders Programme, which he said could help position Ghana to attract significant investment.
“Considering the importance of talent management and skills development, the government in the industry is implementing a flagship programme, the One Billion Coders Programme. We believe that it will be our biggest asset to attract huge investment into the country,” he said.
Emmanuel Ofori also called for digital development to be inclusive, safe and accessible to all sections of society.
“A digital future that excludes sections of society cannot truly record progress. We must therefore create opportunities that are accessible to all: young people, women, persons with disabilities, rural communities, and marginalised groups. We must also ensure that innovation is guided by ethics, accountability, and responsible leadership.”
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Story by Wilhemina Dushie | univers.ug.edu.gh
Edited by Erica Odeenyin Odoom
