Graduates of Radford University College, Accra, have been urged to adopt an entrepreneurial mindset and position themselves as innovators capable of creating opportunities rather than waiting for employment in an increasingly competitive global job market.
The call was made by Dr Ernest Ofori Sarpong, Chairman of the Special Group of Companies, when he delivered the keynote address at Radford University College’s 10th Graduation and 14th Matriculation Ceremony.
Addressing a gathering of graduates, university leaders, parents and distinguished guests, Dr Ofori Sarpong congratulated the graduating class for their perseverance, discipline and commitment throughout their academic journey.
He described the moment as the culmination of years of sacrifice marked by long nights of study, demanding projects, rigorous assignments and examinations.
“Today marks the end of one chapter of your academic journey, but more importantly, it marks the beginning of a much greater responsibility, applying your knowledge to solve real-world problems,” he said.
Dr Ofori Sarpong noted that the ceremony’s theme: “Producing Industry-Ready and Entrepreneurial Graduates,” reflected the evolving realities of the modern global economy, where the number of graduates entering the workforce continues to exceed available job opportunities.
Identify problems
According to him, success in today’s world requires graduates to move beyond the traditional expectation of employment and instead cultivate the ability to identify problems and transform them into business or innovation opportunities.
“Graduates today have two choices: they can wait for opportunities, or they can create them.”
He emphasised that employers are increasingly seeking more than academic credentials.
Instead, organisations are looking for individuals who demonstrate critical thinking, strong communication, teamwork, adaptability, and innovative problem-solving skills.
Encouraging the graduates to see challenges through a different lens, Dr Ofori Sarpong stressed that many successful businesses and impactful careers are built on solving pressing societal problems.
“Your degree may open doors, but what keeps those doors open is your ability to create value wherever you find yourself,” he told the graduates.
He urged them to resist the temptation to wait for ideal conditions before pursuing their ambitions.
“Start with what you know, start with what you have, and start where you are.”
According to him, some of the most successful ventures in the world began with modest resources and a willingness to take calculated risks.
Concluding his remarks, Dr Ofori Sarpong challenged the graduating class to pursue excellence and demonstrate courage as they step into the next stage of their lives.
Source:
www.graphic.com.gh