Accra Technical University (ATU) has officially launched its Business School, transforming the former Faculty of Business into a fully-fledged school as part of efforts to strengthen business education and prepare graduates for the demands of the modern workplace.

The launch brought together academics, industry leaders and stakeholders, who stressed the need for tertiary institutions to complement classroom learning with practical skills and real-world experience.

Speaking at the event, internationally recognised marketing scholar and educator, Professor Robert Ebo Hinson, urged universities and businesses to adopt innovative approaches that respond to the changing dynamics of the global business environment.

He introduced his self-developed BATTLE Framework, a strategic model aimed at helping institutions strengthen leadership, promote innovation and develop world-class standards of excellence.

Professor Hinson emphasised the importance of rethinking traditional approaches to education and ensuring that graduates are equipped with skills relevant to contemporary industry needs.

Chief Executive Officer of the McDan Group of Companies, Daniel McKorley, also called on tertiary institutions to prioritise practical training and industry exposure before students enter the job market.

He said the corporate environment requires more than academic qualifications, stressing that graduates must be able to apply their knowledge to solve real-world problems.

According to Mr McKorley, businesses do not operate on a “chew and pour” system, and students must acquire hands-on experience alongside theoretical understanding.

The launch of the ATU Business School forms part of the university’s broader strategy to promote practical education, entrepreneurship, innovation and stronger partnerships between academia and industry.

The new school is expected to expand ATU’s capacity to produce graduates who are academically prepared and professionally equipped to compete in an increasingly demanding job market.

University officials said the initiative reflects ATU’s commitment to bridging the gap between academic training and industry expectations while contributing to Ghana’s human capital development.