The Dean of the Business School at the Ghana Communication Technology University (GCTU), Professor George Oppong Appiagyei Ampong, has emphasised the urgent need for business students to acquire practical skills in accounting software to remain competitive in today’s evolving job market.
He explained that in an increasingly digital work environment, students must reinforce their academic learning with consistent hands-on practice using modern accounting tools to ensure they graduate with applicable, job-ready skills.
Prof. Ampong made these remarks on Saturday in Accra at a three-day software skills training programme organised for final-year students of the Department of Accounting, Banking and Finance at the GCTU Business School by the department.
The programme, held in collaboration with Prymage Consultancy Limited, a certified body that specialises in accounting software training, was aimed at bridging the gap between academic training and industry expectations.
Sharing a personal experience, he recounted how he had once undergone training in advanced Excel but could barely recall anything due to a lack of regular practice.
“All the things that I have learned before that I haven’t practised, I’ve forgotten. That is why there is the need for you to do this kind of practice from time to time so that you can stay updated,” he added.
He assured students that the Business School would continue to run refresher sessions and practical activities throughout their academic journey to reinforce what they are learning and help them graduate with job-ready skills.
“We will be doing these practicals to reinforce whatever you are learning within your programme so that everything will become handy for you. On this note, I wish you a very fruitful and successful practical training,” he concluded.
The training focused on Tally Prime 5.0, the latest version of a globally recognised accounting software used across industries.
The programme brought together about 150 students from the BSc Accounting and Computing, BSc Business Administration (Accounting Option), BSc Business Administration (Banking and Finance), and Diploma in Accounting programmes.
Head of the Department of Accounting, Banking and Finance, Dr Emmanuel Attah Kumah Amponsah, in his remark highlighted the growing demand for digital proficiency in the accounting profession.
He stated that the traditional approach to accounting was no longer adequate, as employers now expect graduates to be skilled in modern digital tools and systems.
“These students are going into the job market, and they must acquire the right skills to fit in and compete favourably. This training gives them that advantage,” he said.
“This is something we do every year to ensure our students graduate with practical knowledge that aligns with current trends in the accounting profession,” Dr Amponsah added.
He further noted that exposure to digital tools such as Tally Prime 5.0—which includes payroll and other advanced business functions—not only enhances students’ technical competence but also boosts their employability.
BY STEPHANIE BIRIKORANG
