In an era where the job market is constantly evolving, ensuring that graduates possess the skills and competencies needed by employers is more critical than ever. To address this challenge, the staff of the KNUST School of Business (KSB) recently convened for an insightful retreat aimed at refining its curriculum, enhancing student employability, and reinforcing the School’s commitment to producing industry-ready graduates.

Held from October 30 to November 2, 2024, at the Aqua Safari Resort, this annual Staff Development Workshop brought together faculty members, industry players, and alumni to deliberate on the growing needs of the job market and how KSB can better align its academic offerings with the real-world skills that employers seek.

A Progressive Approach to Education

As the leading and most competitive business school in Ghana, KSB has made remarkable strides in a short time. Since its inception in 2005, the School has graduated over 50,000 students, many of whom have gone on to occupy key roles in various industries across Ghana and internationally. As the School celebrates its 20th anniversary next year, it continues to be recognized as one of the most progressive and innovative business schools in the country. This recognition is driven by its focus on academic excellence, industry collaboration, and a forward-thinking approach to education.

Speaking on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor at the workshop, Prof. David Asamoah, the Pro-Vice Chancellor of KNUST, commended KSB’s dedication to bridging the gap between academic training and industry expectations. He emphasized that the University’s leadership is excited by KSB's continuous efforts to enhance student employability and career success, ensuring that graduates are not only academically sound but also well-prepared to meet the dynamic demands of the professional world.

Industry Insight and Alumni Feedback

One of the key highlights of the retreat was the involvement of industry players and alumni who offered valuable insights into the current state of the job market and how KSB can improve its training programs to better equip students. Industry players affirmed that KSB graduates are well-prepared for their roles, noting that the School’s training provides them with a solid foundation in business fundamentals. However, they also pointed out that there is an increasing need for graduates to be more adaptable to emerging technologies and rapidly changing trends in the business world.

Alumni feedback was equally constructive. Many alumni expressed appreciation for the relevant skills and knowledge they gained from KSB, which have contributed significantly to their career progression. However, they also emphasized the importance of updating the curriculum to reflect new developments in business technology and trends, particularly in areas such as digital marketing, data analytics, and artificial intelligence.

Enhancing Employability: A Holistic Approach

In response to the feedback from industry partners and alumni, KSB staff committed to a range of initiatives aimed at enhancing the employability of students. The curriculum review conducted at the workshop resulted in the introduction of several new components designed to equip students with both the technical skills and soft skills necessary for success in the workplace.

Key areas of focus included:

• Practical Skills Development: KSB plans to incorporate training in key business software tools such as Python, SQL, and SPSS, which are increasingly essential in today's data-driven business environment.

• Personal Branding and Career Skills: Students will also receive training in CV writing, personal branding, interview techniques, and effective communication, all of which are critical for standing out in the competitive job market.

• Internships and Industry Exposure: The School will expand opportunities for internships, industry visits, and field trips, providing students with hands-on experience and exposure to the workings of various sectors.

• Capstone Projects and Real-World Problem Solving: A major change is the introduction of capstone projects and real-life case studies, where students will work in teams to address complex, industry-specific challenges. This will not only help students develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills but also reduce the reliance on outsourcing thesis writing, fostering a culture of independent and practical learning.

Fostering Collaboration Between Academia and Industry

The retreat underscored the importance of continuous collaboration between academia and industry. By involving industry leaders in the curriculum design process, KSB ensures that its educational offerings are relevant and aligned with the needs of the job market. At the same time, the involvement of alumni, who are actively engaged in their respective careers, provides valuable insights into the evolving demands of various industries.

Professor Ahmed Agyapong, the Dean of the KSB, highlighted that these efforts represent a collective commitment to shaping the future of business education in Ghana. "At KSB, we are constantly seeking ways to evolve and adapt our teaching methods to ensure that our students graduate with not only the knowledge but also the skills, confidence, and experiences that will set them up for success in the workplace," he said.

Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for KSB Graduates

As the KNUST School of Business continues to adapt to the changing landscape of business education, its focus remains on producing graduates who are not only academically competent but also well-rounded professionals with the practical skills needed to thrive in the global marketplace.

With its proactive approach to curriculum enhancement, increased industry collaboration, and a strong emphasis on student employability, KSB is positioning itself as a leader in shaping the next generation of business leaders. The School’s commitment to producing industry-ready graduates reflects its ongoing dedication to bridging the gap between academic training and the evolving needs of the business world.

As KSB prepares for its 20th anniversary celebrations, the future looks bright for its students and alumni, who will continue to lead and innovate in a rapidly changing global economy.