GCTU/ANHALT University Alumni Host Networking Session
The Ghana Communication Technology University/Anhalt University of Applied Sciences, Germany Alumni hosted an engaging networking session on Saturday, November 30, 2024, at the Florence Onny Auditorium.
The event aimed at fostering connections, knowledge sharing and collaboration among alumni and professionals, recruiting new students for the recently introduced Anhalt University programmes and educating attendees on the unique academic and career opportunities available in Germany.
Speaking at the event, the Dean of SGSR, Prof. Ebenezer Malcalm, who represented the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Emmanuel Ohene Afoakwa, emphasized that the collaboration between GCTU and Anhalt University goes beyond education. It also focuses on nurturing and developing global leaders who can drive positive change. Prof. Malcalm noted that the VC has pledged an incentive whereby individuals who successfully refer three students to the Anhalt programmes will receive a percentage-based reward.
In her keynote address, the Special Guest of Honour and International Programmes Coordinator at Anhalt University, Prof. Dr. Christiane Naumann, expressed her joy at attending the event, describing the feeling as a “homecoming.”
She emphasized that the Anhalt programme offers more than just a certificate. “Anhalt develops leaders who can confidently articulate and defend their ideas and create innovative businesses,” she said. Prof. Dr Naumann highlighted the unique advantage of earning a German-recognized degree in Ghana, equivalent to studying in Germany itself. This, she explained, provides unparalleled opportunities for global mobility. She emphasized that for anyone interested in working in Germany, having a German education or language skills can greatly simplify the job search process. She encouraged attendees to learn some German and announced that opportunities to study the language would soon be available.
Prof. Dr Naumann announced the introduction of new programmes, including a Master’s in Online Communication, stressing that this programme is particularly relevant in today’s digital age where businesses are increasingly shifting online. By acquiring expertise in online communication, professionals can effectively navigate this new landscape and stay ahead in their careers. She noted that students will have the opportunity to undertake projects in Europe and participate in workshops, providing them with invaluable international exposure and hands-on experience.
In her presentation, the DAAD Programme Officer, Dr. Fortune Agbele elaborated on the organization’s role in promoting international academic exchange and supporting education in Germany, emphasizing the various scholarship opportunities and programmes available to students and researchers. “DAAD serves as a central hub for individuals interested in studying in Germany, providing valuable resources, scholarship opportunities and guidance to support academic pursuits in the country,” she noted. Dr. Agbele shed light on the German university system as well as the country’s unique culture and traditions, providing participants with a deeper understanding of the academic environment and way of life in Germany. “Germany is increasingly becoming a hub for international students, offering a unique blend of academic excellence, innovative research opportunities and cultural diversity,” she emphasized.
Giving her remarks, the GCTU Alumni President, Ms. Magdelene Lamptey, emphasized that the Alumni Association has been officially registered under the Registrar-General’s Department and has launched its logo. She added that during the GCTU 2023/2024 November graduation ceremony, the Association introduced an initiative to reward the overall best graduating students, both undergraduate and master’s degree recipients. This gesture aims at instilling a culture of giving back, encouraging alumni to support their alma mater in the future. Ms. Lamptey commended the Anhalt University programmes, noting that the modules are well-structured and of high quality. She encouraged others to join the programmes, citing their numerous benefits.
Earlier, A lecturer at the GCTU Business School, Nana Agyeman-Prempeh, testified to the benefits of associating with Anhalt University. He touched on the fruitful and mutually beneficial relationship between GCTU and Anhalt University, emphasizing their successful collaboration on innovative energy solutions aimed at creating a more sustainable future for all.
A panel discussion, expertly chaired by Prof. Ebenezer Malcalm ensued, featuring a distinguished lineup of panelists including, Prof. Dr. Christiane Naumann, Dr. Fortune Agbele, Nana Yaa Serwaa Sarpong (General Manager, EIB Network) and Pearl Amoah Boadi (General Manager, Platinum Orthodontic and Advance Dentistry). The panelists drew upon their vast expertise and shared insightful thoughts gleaned from their extensive experience in their respective fields.
Several alumni who had pursued the Anhalt programmes shared their enriching experiences, highlighting the invaluable opportunities they had in connecting and interacting with a diverse and global network of individuals.
