By Elizabeth PUNSU, Kumasi
The Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology School of Business (KSB) has launched a state-of-the-art Digital Skills Lab aimed at equipping students with industry-relevant digital competencies and improving graduate employability in an increasingly technology-driven world.
The facility, which forms part of the university’s broader digital transformation agenda, is expected to provide practical training in areas such as artificial intelligence, data analytics, digital marketing, financial technologies, cybersecurity, cloud computing and digital entrepreneurship.
The newly furnished Digital Skills Laboratory is equipped with 200 computers and will serve as a resource centre for digital skills training, innovation and online examinations. The project received significant support from corporate partners, with OmniBSIC Bank donating 30 computers and Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) Ghana providing 14 computers, helping to establish an additional 50-seat computer laboratory within the facility.
Dean of KSB, Prof. Ahmed Agyapong, said the initiative was a direct response to findings from a tracer study which revealed that although KSB graduates perform exceptionally well academically, many lack the digital skills increasingly demanded by employers.
“The post-pandemic world has ushered in a new era defined by technological turbulence. While our students excel academically across the globe, there is a critical gap in employability skills due to insufficient digital competencies within the curriculum,” he said.
Prof. Agyapong noted that beyond skills training, the facility would support the administration of online examinations, particularly for large classes, and improve efficiency in the submission and processing of examination results.
Coordinator of the Digital Skills Lab, Prof. John Serbe, described the facility as a centre for practical learning, innovation, collaboration and digital empowerment.
“Technology is transforming every aspect of business and society. The question facing every institution today is not whether digital transformation will occur, but whether we are prepared to lead and benefit from it,” he said.
He stressed that employers increasingly seek graduates who combine academic qualifications with practical digital competencies. He, therefore, indicated that the lab would provide opportunities for students, professionals and entrepreneurs to acquire marketable digital skills.
“Our vision is that graduates of the KNUST School of Business will leave not only with degrees but also with valuable digital capabilities that position them to secure employment, create enterprises and lead digital transformation initiatives within their organisations and communities,” he said.
Prof. Serbe added that the facility would also serve as a platform for innovation and enterprise development, enabling students to develop digital solutions, create start-ups and collaborate with industry on real-world challenges.
Representing the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Samuel Asare Nkansah commended the school for the initiative, noting that digital skills have become essential for graduate employability and global competitiveness.
“We are in a moment where institutions are seeking global leadership and graduate employability, and among the key skills graduates require today are digital skills. That is why KSB is being applauded,” he said.
He revealed that the university has invested millions of dollars in digitalisation over the past few years as part of efforts to enhance its global relevance and ensure graduates remain competitive in the evolving digital economy.
Prof. Nkansah encouraged students and staff to take full advantage of the facility to enhance their skills and prepare for the future of work.
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