The Managing Director of the Bulk Oil Storage and Transportation Company (BOST), Dr Edwin Provencal, has urged academia and industry to collaborate effectively to empower the youth with soft skills to transform society.

Dr Provencal also called for the creation of avenues to enable the youth to harness their potential navigate the ever-evolving global oil and gas landscape, and be industry-ready.

He made this appeal at the just-ended 13th Biennial Congress of the KNUST Alumni Association, which was on the theme: “Empowering Today’s Youth for Success in Emerging Global Trends.”

Contributing to a panel discussion, Dr Nathan Amanquah, the Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Computer Science at Ashesi University, called for the development of curricula that would promote innovation.

He encouraged academia to work closely with industry to intentionally come up with programmes that would make students cultivate an innovative mindset to enhance the oil and gas sector.

Daasebre Nana Kwaku Boateng III, Omanhene of the New Juaben Traditional Area, commended the leadership of the KNUST Alumni Association for the youth-focused initiatives, urging them to do more.

The congress brought together alumni from across the country, including KNUST Pro Vice-Chancellor Professor David Asamoah, and some international delegates.

A key highlight of the event was the Youth Day, which featured a Curriculum Vitae (CV) Clinic, networking skills and one-on-one mentorship sessions, as well as a job fair.

The sessions were to prepare graduates for the job market and provided opportunities for professional growth.

The Alumnus of the Year award was presented to Osabarima Ansah Sasraku III, Mamfehene and Kyidomhene of the Akuapem Traditional Area, in recognition of his contributions to the development of the Alumni Association.

In his address, Osabarima Ansah Sasraku urged the Alumni community to actively create internships and mentorship opportunities for students and to collaborate with KNUST to make curricula more industry-relevant.

He encouraged the University to integrate soft skills, entrepreneurship training, and the use of technology and artificial intelligence in its programmes.

He also advised students and young graduates to engage in volunteering to build their skills and take advantage of mentorship and networking opportunities.