The University of Business and Integrated Development Studies (UBIDS) has organised a Career and Academic Guidance Seminar for its final-year students, bringing together university leadership, faculty, and industry practitioners to prepare the graduating cohort for a successful transition into professional life.
The seminar, held on 9th April, 2026 at the New Auditorium, was coordinated by the Office of the Dean of Students in collaboration with the University’s Counselling Unit. It formed part of UBIDS’s institutional commitment to providing graduating students with the academic, professional, and personal guidance required to thrive beyond the university.
Delivering the welcome address, the Pro-Vice Chancellor, Professor Issaka Osumanu Kanton, described the seminar as a reflection of the university’s commitment to holistic student development. He called on students to cultivate relevant competencies, maintain a healthy balance between academic responsibilities and personal well-being, and strive to distinguish themselves as graduates who contribute meaningfully to society.
Professor Kanton underscored the significance of practical training, noting that it represents a critical pathway to career readiness and is one of the hallmarks that sets UBIDS graduates apart in a competitive labour market.
Professor Kenneth Peprah, Director of Academic Planning and Quality Assurance opened the academic segment of the seminar by walking students through the requirements for graduation. He stressed on the importance of resolving outstanding incomplete results through the university’s resit processes, adhering to established long essay submission guidelines, and complying fully with UBIDS’s plagiarism policy.
Students were further reminded to complete all academic and financial clearance obligations ahead of the graduation ceremony. Professor Peprah also encouraged the graduating class to cultivate an alumnus mindset to see themselves as enduring ambassadors of the university and to engage actively with the UBIDS Alumni Association upon completion of their studies.
Dr. Paul Tongkomah Saayir, Head of the Department of Business Education, School of Education and Life-Long Learning, delivered a practical session on writing effective application letters, explaining that a well-crafted cover letter is a candidate’s first and most important opportunity to demonstrate suitability for a role. He advised students to move beyond generic templates and instead tailor each application to the specific requirements of the position being sought, clearly articulating relevant qualifications, experiences, and the value they would bring to a prospective employer.
The seminar also addressed the compulsory national service scheme, situating it not merely as a statutory obligation but as a valuable professional development opportunity delivered by Delivered by Mr. Raphael Neenon Derbie, Upper West Regional Director of the National Service Authority. Students were informed that national service offers a structured platform for gaining hands-on work experience, developing transferable skills, and building professional networks that may prove instrumental in early career advancement. The scheme’s contribution to national development spanning education, healthcare, agriculture, and infrastructure was equally emphasised.
Professor John Yaw Akparep, Dean of School of Business guided students through the principles of producing compelling and competitive curricula vitae. He explained the key differences between CV formats and how to select the most appropriate style for different professional contexts. Professor Akparep stressed on the critical importance of providing accurate and credible referee information and encouraged students to invest intentionally in building strong academic and professional relationships prior to graduation.
Mr. Alhassan Issaka, a representative from the Labour Commission addressed students on what employers seek when recruiting graduates, with a focus on communication skills, problem-solving ability, and the capacity to apply academic knowledge to real-world challenges. Students were urged to cultivate genuine relationships with peers, lecturers, and industry professionals and to leverage digital platforms such as LinkedIn as tools for expanding their professional networks and visibility in the job market.
The seminar’s final presentation was delivered by Mr. Stephen Mwinkara, Chief Executive Officer of Nouyoung Empire Hotel, who offered students an entrepreneurial perspective on post-graduation life. He highlighted the core drivers of sustainable business success including product value creation, customer relationship management, sound pricing strategies, and a focus on profitability. Mr. Mwinkara challenged students to identify their unique strengths and to develop innovative solutions that respond to genuine societal needs, emphasising that success in entrepreneurship demands strategic thinking, adaptability, and a commitment to continuous personal growth.
Professor Felicia Naatu, Director of the Centre for Career Guidance and Entrepreneurship Development, and Head of the Department of Marketing, School of Business and Dr. Leander Alluo, Postgraduate Coordinator, School of Business advised students on choosing and maintaining a life partner, stressing the importance of both compatibility and complementarity in relationships.
They cautioned against rushing into marriage, noting that circumstances such as unplanned pregnancy should not be the sole reason for commitment. Students were encouraged to marry for genuine love rooted in respect and shared values, rather than personality alone.
The speakers highlighted emotional maturity, mutual respect, and support for personal growth as key qualities of a good partner. They also emphasized that while conflicts are inevitable, the ability to resolve them calmly is essential for a healthy relationship.
The Career and Academic Guidance Seminar reaffirms UBIDS’s resolve to produce graduates who are not only academically equipped but are well-rounded, career-ready, and positioned to make a lasting impact in their communities and professions.