Upper West Region students are being urged to embrace digital, communication, and practical skills to supplement their academic achievements in response to a rapidly evolving global landscape. This imperative was the central message of “Start Right,” an empowerment program organized by School of Thoughts Ghana aimed at bridging the gap between secondary education, university access, and essential life skills.
Bridging the Education-Skills Gap
The “Start Right” initiative brought together university representatives who detailed their academic offerings and admission procedures. This session aimed to demystify higher education for students in the region. Following the general presentations, attendees had the opportunity for one-on-one discussions with these representatives to receive personalized guidance on their academic paths.
School of Thoughts Ghana’s Mission
Founder Abraham Agoni explained that School of Thoughts Ghana, established in 2019, focuses on human capacity development and opportunity creation to enhance educational quality. The organization prioritizes bringing together young individuals passionate about community contribution.
To date, the initiative has impacted over 3,000 students across Northern Ghana. School of Thoughts Ghana is actively seeking to broaden its reach, with plans to establish a new office in the Upper West Region, complementing its existing presence in Accra and Walewale.
Agoni appealed for support from corporate partners and volunteers to help the organization achieve its goal of extending vital mentorship and educational opportunities to rural communities across all 16 regions of Ghana.
Reskilling for the Modern Economy
Operating under the theme “Reskilling the Future,” the program’s mentorship sessions addressed the realities of the contemporary economy. Consultant and leadership coach Prophet Prakash Pyne spoke to students from 12 participating secondary schools about the crucial skills required to succeed in an increasingly competitive world.
Pyne highlighted the urgent need for strong digital skills, particularly in Artificial Intelligence (AI). He emphasized that these abilities transcend geographical limitations, noting the significant and ongoing investments in AI across Asia, America, and the Middle East.
“Artificial intelligence can beat even the most intelligent human being because it is a machine,” Pyne stated, underscoring AI’s potential. He challenged students to identify and leverage technology to solve local market issues, such as agricultural logistics and transportation, rather than solely relying on traditional employment opportunities.
The Value of Market-Ready Skills
Actor and comedian Clemento Suarez used interactive demonstrations to illustrate the distinction between academic knowledge and market-ready skills. During his first visit to Wa, Suarez pointed out that while academic systems often reward rote memorization, the professional world demands practical application.
“We don’t do ‘abomasum reticulum’ in any office, but if you don’t pass, no office will call you to find out what you can do,” Suarez remarked, illustrating the foundational importance of academic success while advocating for practical abilities.
He urged students to master at least one practical skill, designating digital competency as a non-negotiable requirement for the current generation. Suarez also advised young people to refrain from using social media for online disputes, characterizing such behavior as amplifying societal negativity.
Instead, he encouraged the use of platforms like TikTok for self-employment by showcasing the rich culture and positive narratives of the Upper West Region, including local arts, basket weaving, and the vibrant Wa market. Suarez cited the international success of regional figures like Wiyaala and Wode Maya as examples of how digital platforms can connect creators with global audiences.
Practical Capacity Building
Beyond academic access, School of Thoughts Ghana dedicated significant effort to practical capacity building. Students participated in focused breakout sessions where mentors provided guidance in key areas such as leadership, entrepreneurship, and innovation.
Looking Ahead
The program’s success in the Upper West Region signals a growing recognition of the need for holistic skill development in Ghana’s educational system. As School of Thoughts Ghana aims to expand its reach, the focus on AI, digital literacy, and practical application of knowledge will be crucial for preparing Ghanaian youth for future economic challenges and opportunities. The call for corporate partnerships and volunteer support underscores the collaborative effort required to scale such impactful initiatives nationwide.
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