Graduates in a photograph with school authorities
President of the National Association for Heavy Equipment Operators Ghana (NAHEOG), Dominic Kofi Eyiah, has called on corporate entities to offer avenues for students to do internship services for skill development.
Mr. Eyiah expressed concern during the second graduation ceremony of forklift and crane operation training at the Regional Maritime University (RMU) in Accra that certain business entities do not want to admit students for internship.
He spoke under the theme: “Equipping the Youth with Employable Skills: The Role of Corporate Organizations.”
According to him, young people are the future of the country, and it is critical for corporate entities to collaborate with educational institutions to prepare them for the job market.
“In a rapidly evolving global economy, the demand for skilled and adaptable workers is continuously increasing. Youth, with their fresh perspectives and energy, are an invaluable asset,” Mr. Eyiah stated.
However, he stated that without the necessary skills, the youth may find themselves unprepared to tackle the demands of today’s job market.
According to the NAHEOG President, business organizations have the means and expertise to provide specialized training and development programmes, emphasizing the importance of collaborating with educational institutions to develop curriculum that are in line with current job market expectations.
He said these programs can focus on both hard skills, such as technical proficiency, and soft skills, such as communication, problem-solving, and teamwork, and by tailoring educational initiatives to real-world needs, corporate organizations can help bridge the gap between theory and practice.
“Corporate organizations can offer internships, apprenticeships, and mentorship programs that provide practical, hands-on experience for young individuals.
This exposure is invaluable, as it not only teaches them the specific skills needed for a particular industry but also cultivates a strong work ethic and a deep understanding of corporate culture,” he added.
Meridian Port Service’s Operating Manager, Emmanuel Ohene Addo, stated, “Most often, you hear comments from corporate organizations and other media outlets that our current graduates are not fit for the organizations.”
He blamed businesses for not accepting these students when they applied for internships at their organizations.
Ohene Addo urged higher institution leaders to begin pushing appropriate authorities to adopt policies that ensure employers hire students as interns.
For their six weeks of instruction in Forklift and Crane Operation, 45 students, including three ladies, received certificates.
BY Prince Fiifi Yorke