The Okyenhene, Osagyefuo Amoatia Ofori Panin, has urged Ghana’s universities to redesign their academic programmes to meet the demands of a rapidly changing global economy, calling on higher education institutions to produce entrepreneurs, innovators and job creators rather than graduates focused solely on academic qualifications.

Speaking as the special guest of honour at the investiture of Professor Eric Kwasi Ofori as Vice-Chancellor of Garden City University and the institution’s 18th Congregation, the traditional ruler said universities must respond to technological change, artificial intelligence, climate change and shifting labour market demands.

The Okyenhene said higher education institutions should become centres of innovation, entrepreneurship, research and practical problem-solving.

“We are living in a rapidly changing world shaped by technological advancement, artificial intelligence, climate change, public health challenges, economic uncertainty and evolving labour markets,” he said.

“Universities must therefore become centres of innovation, entrepreneurship, research and problem-solving.”

He said graduates should be equipped with practical skills that enable them to create employment rather than depend solely on existing jobs.

The Okyenhene noted that many young Ghanaians possess the talent and determination to establish businesses but struggle because of limited support and an unfavourable business environment.

“I have often asked myself how our universities can better promote entrepreneurship,” he said.

“Many young people in our country have the talent, determination and entrepreneurial spirit to start their own businesses. However, doing so is often very difficult.”

He called for policies and partnerships that would create an enabling environment for young entrepreneurs to establish and expand their businesses.

The traditional leader described education as the most sustainable investment any country can make, saying it remains the foundation for national development and long-term prosperity.

He said Africa’s economic future would depend on universities producing graduates capable of solving real-world problems.

“The future of jobs in Africa will depend on our ability to produce graduates who are not merely degree holders, but critical thinkers, innovators, ethical leaders and job creators,” he said.

The Okyenhene also congratulated Professor Eric Kwasi Ofori on his appointment as Vice-Chancellor, describing his academic journey as an example of how education can transform lives.

“The story of Professor Eric Kwasi Ofori profoundly illustrates that where you are born does not determine your destiny,” he said.

“Education has the power to transform a young boy from Kyebi into a respected scholar, an internationally recognised academic and now the Vice-Chancellor of one of Ghana’s most respected universities.”

He urged universities to continue investing in research, innovation and entrepreneurship to prepare graduates with the knowledge and practical skills needed to drive Ghana’s economic transformation.