The Vice-Chancellor of Garden City University, Prof. Eric Kwasi Ofori, has challenged newly admitted students to cultivate entrepreneurial, innovative and creative mindsets to prepare themselves for the demands of a changing world.
Addressing students at the university’s matriculation ceremony for the 2026/2027 academic year at Kwabre Kenyasi in the Ashanti region, Prof. Ofori urged them to look beyond obtaining academic qualifications and focus on developing the skills, attitudes and abilities needed to identify opportunities and solve problems.
He described an entrepreneurial mindset as the ability to recognise opportunities, take action and organise resources under uncertain conditions.
According to him, “students must also develop the resilience to persevere through difficulties, learn from failure and become comfortable with the challenges associated with personal and professional growth”.
Prof. Ofori also encouraged the matriculants to embrace innovation by viewing change as an opportunity rather than a threat.
He stressed the importance of creativity, urging them “to think outside the box, approach challenges from different perspectives and develop solutions that distinguish them from their peers”.
The Vice-Chancellor’s message underscored the importance of preparing students not only for employment but also for entrepreneurship and the creation of opportunities in their chosen fields.
He further encouraged the students to work collaboratively rather than rely solely on individual study methods.
“Group work would help you develop skills and perspectives necessary for your academic and professional lives,” Prof. Ofori explained.
Meanwhile, the matriculants have pledged to embrace innovation, pursue excellence and uphold the values of the university.
Speaking on behalf of her colleagues, Gloria Donkor said the students recognised that building a great university required the collective commitment of management, lecturers, staff and students.
“We pledge to remain disciplined, respectful, and committed to academic excellence,” she said.
She added that the students hoped to graduate as responsible professionals and entrepreneurs capable of contributing to Ghana’s development and beyond.
Ms Donkor also expressed appreciation to the university’s management, lecturers, staff, parents and guardians for their support, saying the matriculants were determined to make the most of the educational opportunity.
Source: Ghana/otecfmghana.com/Francis Appiah
