The dean of the Business School at the University of Cape Coast, Professor John Gatsi has called on educators to adopt a participatory learning approach to teaching, fostering an environment where students are active contributors to discussions. Professor Gatsi was speaking at the launch of the Wisconsin International University College, Ghana (WIUC) Business School Students’ Association at its Accra campus. The occasion marks a significant milestone in the development of the business school’s student leadership.
Professor John Gatsi addressing both staff and students as the keynote speaker on the theme “21st Business School: Challenges and opportunities” outlined key competencies required for success in today’s fast-paced business environment. He identified critical skills such as Critical thinking and problem-solving, Effective collaboration and teamwork, Adaptability and resilience, Leadership and innovation, Self-care and personal branding among others as indispensable in navigating the ever-evolving landscape of the 21st-century business world.
Professor Gatsi also urged students to pursue excellence and seize opportunities to win awards, which could inspire their peers and enhance their professional profiles while encouraging faculty members to diversify their teaching methods, incorporating case studies, presentations, and other innovative approaches to improve student engagement.
In his welcome address, the chairman for the occasion and Vice president of the university Dr. Lawrence Kannae emphasized the importance of continuous growth and innovation within the Business School, encouraging students and faculty to strive for academic excellence and professional advancement. The chairman urged everyone present to be agents of change, driving both personal and institutional development.
Ms Sena Dake, President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants Ghana also spoke on the topic “The Future of Accounting: Embracing Technology and Innovation” where she highlighted the transformative impact of technology on the accounting profession, emphasizing the growing relevance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in reshaping personal and professional development. Ms Sena Dake encouraged students to continuously update their skills, engage with professional associations like the Institute of Chartered Accountants Ghana, and remain open to learning from emerging technologies.
The event also featured a presentation by student entrepreneurs from the Wisconsin Business School Innovation Hub, a program aimed at empowering students to apply classroom theory to real-world business challenges. The student entrepreneurs showcased their innovative projects and shared their experiences in navigating the entrepreneurial landscape.
The event culminated in the formal swearing-in of the executive members of the Wisconsin School of Business Students Association, with the oath of office administered by the Dean of the Business School, Dr Bright Mawudor.
Distinguished attendees included Dr. Bright Mawudor, Dean of the Wisconsin School of Business; Madam Loretta Tetteh, Dean of Students; Madam Comfort Lartey, Deputy Registrar; Professor Angela Kwarteng, Dean of the School of Nursing and Midwifery; Mr. Mamadu Diediuo, Dean of the School of Business, Kumasi Campus and representatives from the Ghana Stock Exchange.
