The GCTU Chapter of the Ghana Association of University Administrators (GAUA) has empowered its members with a one-day training programme in Microsoft Excel and Word on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at the Forensic Lab, Tesano campus.
The event, organized by the Training and Development Committee (TDC) of the Association, aimed at enhancing productivity and efficiency by improving accuracy in reporting and documentation, leveraging automation and templates for time savings and promoting better communication through professional documents.
Speaking at the event, the GAUA President, Dr. Kwame Owusu-Ansah Afram, emphasized that the training programme marked the first of several sessions planned for the year 2025. He underscored the value of staying up-to-date with technology to improve work efficiency and productivity. “Microsoft Excel and Word are integral to daily tasks, making this training highly relevant and essential,” he noted. Dr. Afram expressed gratitude to the TDC Chairperson and members for organizing the training, recognizing its potential to empower members with essential skills for success through tech advancements.
The training session was led by the System Integration Manager at Telecel, Mr. Gilbert Cadman Appiah-Ofori, who provided expert insights and shared in-depth knowledge on Microsoft Excel and Word. His presentation covered a range of advanced topics designed to enhance participants’ proficiency and productivity, including:
- Advanced Microsoft Word: Document formatting, use of templates and standardization, creation of tables and charts, mail merge techniques, collaboration tools, referencing, and automation.
- Microsoft Excel: Data entry and formatting, application of formulas and functions, data analysis tools, data visualization, data validation and protection and techniques for automation and efficiency.
Mr. Appiah-Ofori emphasized that mastering Excel formulas can greatly improve productivity and data management. He highlighted key functions such as SUM, COUNTIF and VLOOKUP, underscoring their practical relevance for everyday tasks aimed at boosting efficiency.
Participants engaged in hands-on exercises and real-time problem-solving during the intensive practical sessions, gaining valuable insights and experience.
In her opening remarks, the Director of CSBPD and Chairperson of the TDC, Mrs. Araba Hackman Akanji, noted that Microsoft Excel and Word are often underestimated. However, she stressed their critical role in enhancing workplace productivity and technical skills.
In her closing remarks, Mrs. Hackman Akanji encouraged participants to explore CSBPD’s training programmes which are tailored to meet the needs of various organizations. She urged attendees to apply the knowledge and skills acquired during the training in their daily tasks. She also expressed her appreciation to both the facilitator and participants for their contributions to the success of the session.
