BeTechConnected, a tech-driven social enterprise committed to bridging the gap between academia and industry through training and mentorship held the Future of Work 2.0 media soiree last weekend.

The gathering, which took place at the ALX Hub at One Airport Square, Airport City, was to provide opportunities for gaining knowledge, insights, and education on the event’s mission and exciting offerings.

The event aimed to highlight the importance of the Future of Work and its connection to academia—particularly universities—hence the theme: “Academia and Industry: The Variance Between the Current University Curriculum and the Demands of Industry.”

Akosua Osei, Project Lead for Future of Work 2.0, emphasized that university students are often not adequately prepared for today’s rapidly evolving job market, making it challenging for them to integrate into the workforce and global tech roles. She also underscored the importance of mindset shifts in goal setting.

“We believe that after training, one has to be nurtured. A lot of people receive training, but they don’t know how to start or where to find opportunities. Training goes beyond the institution providing knowledge; individuals also play a role in shaping their career and global aspirations.”

The event will feature key industry players in technology, academia, and soft skills development, who will share valuable insights, practical skills, and opportunities with students and young professionals.

Ama Sackey, Marketing Manager at ALX, highlighted ALX’s commitment to training three million young Africans as a driving force behind their partnership with Future of Work 2.0. She stated that ALX’s mission aligns perfectly with the event’s goal of equipping young people with relevant skills for the future.

“By 2030, we want to have impacted three million young Africans. We aim to shape the future together—not allow it to become a ticking time bomb where young people turn to vices. Instead, we want them to take ownership of the future and leverage technology for transformation.”

Similarly, Vittoria Paolino, Operations Manager at Turntabl, reinforced the significance of training, upskilling, and connecting software engineers to global opportunities as the foundation of their partnership with Future of Work 2.0. She stressed the need to position Ghana as a leading hub for tech talent.

“Turntabl offers a great opportunity for Ghanaian talent—not only to showcase their skills but also to connect and build networks with global professionals. The goal is to highlight the depth of talent in Ghana and show what young Ghanaian professionals can achieve when connected — ‘BeTechConnected’—with the world.”

Martin Kwame Awagah, President of the Ghana Fintech & Payments Association, spoke about the importance of adapting workplace procedures and aligning skills with emerging trends to stay competitive. He continues to advocate for curriculum updates that reflect evolving and relevant tech advancements.

“My first degree and masters were both in economics. But when I recognized the shift toward emerging technologies and AI, I didn’t need anyone to tell me to adapt. The world is moving in a different direction, and we must integrate technology into all university courses.”

With over 500+ participants from Future of Work 1.0 and an outstanding lineup of resource persons, Future of Work 2.0 aims to deepen conversations around:

• Spreading awareness of the future of work
• Training & Upskilling African youth for emerging fields
• Advocating for curriculum adjustments in line with industry needs
• Promoting an inclusive movement toward better ‘presents’ and ‘futures’

The event takes place at the R.S. Amegahsie Hall, University of Ghana Business School on the 21^st and 22^nd of March, 2025 at 9:30am. Future of Work 2.0 promises to be an influential gathering, equipping young professionals and students with the tools, knowledge, and networks needed to thrive in the evolving world of work.