The University of Business and Integrated Development Studies (UBIDS), through its Centre for Career Guidance and Entrepreneurship Development (CCGED), organised a Career Fair on 12 March 2026 under the EU–Ghana Pact for Skills Project funded by UNCDF.
The organising team included Professor Felicia Naatu, Career Services Lead; Dr. George Nanko Dery, Project Lead; Dr. Lea Anzagra; Professor Frederick Dayour; Nicholas Tanye; the University Counsellor Mr. Ayamba Iddrisu; and Mr. Sumaila Chakura, the consortium partner on the project.
The programme was aimed at equipping students with practical career insights, professional competencies, and opportunities to interact directly with industry partners and employers, thereby strengthening their preparedness for the evolving labour market. It brought together 150 students, entrepreneurs, employers, and development partners to create a platform for interaction, networking, and knowledge sharing on emerging career opportunities and professional development pathways at the Lecture Hall 3A, on the University campus.
In her welcome address, the Director of Career Services underscored the importance of career development initiatives in preparing students to transition successfully from university into the world of work.
Explaining the rationale for the initiative, the Career Services Lead and Ag. Director for CCGED stated that the Career Fair was designed to create a direct interface between students and industry while equipping them with the practical skills required for effective entry into the job market.
According to her, “the Career Fair is intended to connect our students directly with industry players by bringing employers, institutions, and professionals onto campus to interact with them and expose them to real opportunities within the labour market.”
Managers and professionals from several organisations were invited to engage with students and provide guidance on critical employability skills. These included Dr. Jabaah Seidu Mahama from Stanbic Bank; Mr. Molly Apoita together with his staff Andrew Enmaari Yahaya and Emmanuel Quansah from the Absa Bank Wa Branch; and the CEO of Nuoyoung Empire, Mr Stephen Mwinkaara. Also in attendance was Mr. Godwin Fuoh Bibariwiah, representing the Labour Department of Ghana in the Upper West Region, as well as development partners from Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), namely Ms. Ruth Mensah and Mr. Walter Dzimey. They all contributed to meaningful discussions aimed at equipping students with essential employability skills. A major highlight of the event was the exhibition session, where employers and organisations showcased career opportunities within their institutions. Students interacted with recruiters, explored various career pathways, and distributed their résumés while gathering information about potential employers.
Participants also benefited from a presentation on study and work abroad opportunities delivered by Ms. Ruth Mensah of GIZ, who provided insights into international education programmes, scholarship opportunities, and visa requirements. She also outlined key requirements for accessing such opportunities, including recognised qualifications, relevant skills, certification recognition, and language proficiency. According to her, “there are increasing opportunities for young professionals to study and work abroad, but students must equip themselves with the right qualifications, skills, and language proficiency to take advantage of these opportunities.”
Another engaging session focused on Remote work and Gig economy, facilitated by Mr. Walter Dzimey of GIZ. He introduced students to the growing global opportunities in remote and freelance work, as well as platforms such as Upwork, Fiverr, and LinkedIn that connect freelancers to global clients.
The fair also featured networking and breakout sessions on industry skills and job opportunities, CV reviews and mock interviews, and personal branding and LinkedIn optimisation, providing participants with practical guidance on improving their employability.
The programme concluded with closing remarks by Professor Felicia Naatu, who encouraged students to take advantage of the University’s career support services as they prepare for their future careers.
The Career Fair forms part of UBIDS’ broader commitment to enhancing students’ employability by strengthening partnerships with industry and exposing students to real-world career opportunities and professional development resources.
Management members present were the Director of Human Resources, Dr. Abdulai Mu-een as a resource person and representing the Registrar, the Director of University Relations, Dr. Fidelis Z. Tang, the Head of the University Guidance and Counselling Unit, Mr. Ayamba Iddrisu, and the Faculty Officer of School of Law, Mr. Chakura Sumaila.
See Full Picture Gallery of the Event here: https://photos.app.goo.gl/gqJEgDEWxD9qUtys9
Issued by:
Directorate of University Relations
University of Business and Integrated Development Studies
Wa Campus, Upper West Region, Ghana
+233 392 097 256 / +233 392 097 257
www.ubids.edu.gh
info@ubids.edu.gh | uro@ubids.edu.gh