Moderating the Academia-Industry Partnership Panel at UENR's Petroleum Engineering Career Fair

In November 2024, the Department of Petroleum and Natural Gas Engineering at the University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR) held a Career Fair for its students. I moderated Day 1 of the panel discussion, which was held on the theme "The Need for Academia-Industry Partnership".

The panel brought together:

• Dr. Yaw Akyampon B., Head of the Department of Petroleum and Natural Gas Engineering;
• Ing. Enoch Asare Ayesu, Ghana National Gas Company Limited;
• Ing. Muhammed Muftawu Alhassan, Ghana National Gas Company Limited.

The discussion

The panel focused on the role of collaboration between universities and industry in preparing graduates for work. A consistent message was that students need more than theoretical knowledge: they need practical skills, sound values and adaptability, which the panellists described as the keys to thriving in a competitive job market.

As moderator, my aim was to ask the right questions, press for clarity and keep the discussion focused on equipping students with the mindset, tools and values they need. One of the most engaging moments came when the panellists reflected on what they would do differently if they were back in their final year of university. Their answers were candid and resonated with the audience.

Six recommendations for students

Six recommendations emerged from the discussion:

1. Build connections early. Develop relationships with peers, lecturers, alumni and professionals in your field. Do not wait until graduation to start engaging with industry.
2. Find mentors. Seek out lecturers, industry professionals or senior colleagues who can offer insight, feedback and direction for your career.
3. Think critically and solve problems. Employers value people who can think critically and provide solutions. Treat challenges as opportunities to innovate and learn.
4. Manage your time. Learn to balance academic, personal and professional commitments. Being time-conscious is a skill that will serve you throughout your career.
5. Develop soft skills. Technical expertise is essential, but humility, teamwork, communication and adaptability often determine how far you go.
6. Acquire practical skills and certifications. Employers want graduates who add value to their organisations. Be proactive in gaining competencies that set you apart.

Acknowledgements

I thank the panellists, Dr. Yaw Akyampon B., Ing. Enoch Asare Ayesu and Ing. Muhammed Muftawu Alhassan, for their candid contributions, and Dr. Yaw Akyampon B. and the Department of Petroleum and Natural Gas Engineering for creating this platform.