Adding to efforts to enrich the UG student experience, the University has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Spain-Ghana Chamber of Commerce (SGCC) at a brief ceremony to launch an internship programme for students.
In her welcome remarks, the Registrar, Mrs. Emelia Agyei-Mensah stated how dear the initiative is to the University. She noted that internships provide students with a valuable glimpse into the work environment and compliments the holistic training of students.
In brief remarks, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Nana Aba Appiah Amfo, said “The University of Ghana is excited about this collaboration not only because of the hands-on industrial experience that will be acquired, but also the cross-cultural exposure that will be experienced during the internship period as well as job opportunities which would become available to our graduates through this partnership”. She disclosed that the University has developed an internship policy which seeks to streamline and synchronise practical sessions including internships, to derive the best outcomes.
Prof. Amfo expressed the University’s pleasure to partner with SGCC in equipping students for the 21st century work environment.
The Ambassador of Spain, His Excellency Mr. Javier Gutiérrez, in his address, acknowledged both the University of Ghana and the Chamber’s commitment, which has made it possible for the MoU to be ready in record time.
Ambassador of Spain, His Excellency Mr. Javier Gutiérrez delivering an address
In addition, H.E. Gutiérrez outlined the benefits both parties are likely to enjoy from the MoU. “It will offer highly motivated and competent students of the University the opportunity to gain practical work experience and improve skills, which hopefully will give them access to the job market. For the companies participating, the programme will also have benefits, as the Ghanaian students will bring new perspectives and innovative ideas. Moreover, the programme will be a valuable tool for the companies in their recruitment processes in Ghana’.
Mr. Joaquin Roura Lama, President of the Spain-Ghana Chamber of Commerce, gave a historical background on the activities of the SGCC in Ghana. He enumerated some of the employment opportunities associated with studying the Spanish language and culture and expressed his outfit’s delight in supporting the internship initiative.
The Vice-Chancellor signing whilst the President of the Spain-Ghana Chamber of Commerce looks on
Earlier in his introductory remarks, Prof. Daniel Frimpong Ofori, Provost, College of Humanities, thanked those who worked tirelessly to make the ceremony a reality. He acknowledged how competitive the corporate world is and the need for students to possess the requisite skills to fit into it. “Hence, the internship initiative is a perfect opportunity,” he reiterated. Prof. Ofori advised students to make themselves and the University proud as they embark on the internships.
While Ghana Dance Ensemble thrilled the audience with cultural performances, Ms. Princella Amponsah, a Level 200 Spanish student eloquently recited a Spanish poem. The office of Legal Counsel coordinated the signing of the memorandum and Ms. Nana Ama Serwaa Bediako, a student representative, moved the vote of thanks.
Other members of SGCC who were present at the ceremony included Ms. Ana Belén Nieto Tercero, Secretary-General; Mr. Nadim Ghanem Jr., former President Spain-Ghana Chamber of Commerce and Mr. Miguel Casero, Head of the Economic and Commercial Office.
University officials who witnessed the signing of the MoU included Prof. Justice Bawole, Chair of Internship Policy Committee and Dean, University of Ghana Business School; Prof. Ildiko Csajbok-Twerefou, Head, Department, of Modern Languages; Dr. Joanna Boampong, Director, Centre for Latin American Studies and Mrs. Elizier T. Ameyaw-Buronyah, Director, Public Affairs Directorate.
Also present were Heads of Department, Faculty, staff, students and members of the media fraternity.
A group photograph after the signing of the MoU
