Mensah Sarbah Hall at the University of Ghana reinforced its commitment to student development with a Professional Pathways and Financial Literacy Programme held on Monday as part of its Hall Week celebrations, Ascenova 2026, aimed at preparing students for life beyond the university classroom.
The programme brought together professionals from various industries to share practical insights on career growth, financial management, human resources, entrepreneurship, and personal branding.
Delivering the welcome address, Lordy Afia Amankwah-Mireku highlighted the importance of exposing students to industry professionals who can provide guidance on navigating both their academic and professional journeys. She encouraged participants to make the most of the opportunity by actively engaging the speakers and applying the lessons shared to their personal and career development.
The first presentation of the day was delivered by Senior Fuaad Dodoo, a representative of Brassica Pay Limited, who took participants through the fundamentals of savings, investments, and sustainable wealth creation. He emphasized the importance of cultivating healthy financial habits, stressing that financial freedom begins with discipline, consistency, and informed decision-making.
“One thing that helps prevent debt is learning how to invest early. When money enters your account, do not be too quick to spend it. Allocate 30% to savings and investments, 50% to your needs, and 20% to your wants,” he advised.
Participants were subsequently treated to an insightful session by Daniel Amankwah Aboagye, Business Manager and Business Development Professional at Fidelity Bank. Drawing from his professional experience, he shared practical lessons on career growth, workplace excellence, and the importance of positioning oneself for opportunities. He encouraged students to continuously develop relevant skills and remain adaptable in an ever-changing professional environment.
The conversation then shifted to the field of human resources as Eunice Dede Tornyi, Marketing and Communications Manager of the Chartered Institute of Human Resource Management (CIHRM), introduced students to the profession. She provided an overview of Human Resource Management, its significance within organisations, and the diverse career opportunities available within the sector. Her presentation offered valuable insights to students considering careers in human resources and people management.
Adding a media and personal branding perspective to the programme was Reggie Reg, Assistant Media Manager at YFM Accra and host of Y Campus Express, who challenged students to focus on creating value in every space they find themselves.
According to him, opportunities often come to those who consistently provide solutions and make meaningful contributions. He encouraged students to invest in themselves, build strong networks, and remain intentional about their personal brands.
The second phase of the programme featured a panel discussion involving Lawyer Emmanuella Osardu and other speakers. Reflecting on her journey, Lawyer Osardu recounted how she gained prominence through her role as “Ella Baby” in the popular television series Afia Schwarzenegger before eventually pursuing a career in law despite her success in the entertainment industry.
She encouraged students to remain true to themselves while pursuing their ambitions and cautioned against allowing external pressures to push them beyond their limits.
The Professional Pathways and Financial Literacy Programme reflects Mensah Sarbah Hall’s commitment to holistic student development by bridging the gap between academia and industry.
Beyond academic excellence, the initiative sought to equip students with practical knowledge, financial literacy, and professional skills needed to thrive in an increasingly competitive world, reinforcing the Hall’s vision of producing well-rounded graduates prepared for the future.