|
|
Current News | Archived News | Media Coverage | Subscribe to email newsletter 
News from 2008
Jan-Mar
| Apr-Jun
Astrient Labs Founder teaches
mobile programming at Ashesi
As part of the Astrient Labs' (http://www.astrientlaboratories.com)
knowledge transfer program, the Founder and C.E.O of Astrient
Labs, Rashid Mayes hosted a two-day training seminar in mobile
phone application programming. Astrient Labs is a mobile
device consultancy firm based in the United States.
The mobile telecommunications industry is one of the biggest and
fastest growing industries globally and currently boasts over a
billion users. In Africa the telecommunications sector is
expanding rapidly as populations look to mobile technologies to
help them overcome poor existing communications infrastructure.
Students spent the day learning the basics of mobile phone
programming using a simulated mobile phone toolkit and a
programming development environment. The students had the chance
to upload and run mobile phone applications on mobile devices.
The Astrient Fellowship, a knowledge transfer program also run
by Astrient Labs, is currently receiving applications for
African students to work as fellows developing their own
technologies for mobile devices.
Ashesi hosts social science
research methods workshop
From
March 11th to 14th, 2008, Ashesi University partnered with
the Institute of Development Studies (IDS), University of
Sussex in running a four-day Research Methods workshop.
The goal of the workshop was to promote high quality social
science research in Ghana and introduce new techniques to
African researchers.
The Workshop was attended by faculty from
Ashesi University College, University of Ghana, Legon, Kwame
Nkrumah University of Science & Technology, University of
Cape Coast, University of Development Studies, Tamale,
Regent University, Central University College and Wisconsin
International University College. The workshop was
funded by a grant from the England-Africa Partnerships in
Higher Education (EAP) programme and administered by the
British Council.
The workshop was facilitated by Dr. Peter Houtzager a Research
Fellow in the Governance group at IDS. Dr. Houtzager
presented research concepts in an easy to grasp way and engaged
the participants in discussing their own research interests.
The research methods workshop provided important insights into
best practices for conducting general research but placed
emphasis on qualitative research. Qualitative research,
typically involves the study of small sized cases, usually less
than twenty. If conducted properly it can be as equally rigorous
as quantitative or numerical research. Participants at the
workshop were challenged to think more clearly about the ideas
and concepts in their research.
One main concept highlighted during this four-day workshop was
proposal writing. Participants came to appreciate the artistic
as well as strategic nature of writing proposals to fund
research grants. Participants were encouraged to help create a
consortium of researchers that can meet regularly to discuss
best practices and support each others work.
The Institute of Development Studies at the University of
Sussex, Brighton, is a leading global organization for research,
teaching and communications on international development. The
institute was founded in 1966 and enjoys international
reputation based on the quality of its work and its commitment
to applying academic skills to real world challenges. Its
purpose is to understand and explain the world, and to try to
change it – to influence as well as to inform.
KSM speaks to students about career
development
 On
Tuesday 5th February, 2008, Kwaku Sintim-Misa,
alias KSM, one of Africa’s greatest stage sensations was in
Ashesi to speak about “unlocking the job market." This
programme was organized by Ashesi University’s Career
Service Center to give students an insight into job search
and the job market. His visit brought a lot of enthusiasm on
campus. Students were eager to hear the ideas of the "King
of comedy” on how to unlock the job market. The audience
composed of the student body, members of staff and faculty.
In his presentation, K.S.M. emphasized the need for students to
start networking with professionals in the industry they want to
work in. He however added that networking alone is not enough.
One will have to prove herself/himself on the job. He also
emphasized the need to persevere. For KSM perseverance (which he
also dubbed as ‘STICKITUITY’) is key to success because with it
comes one’s preparedness to learn from failures in order to
succeed. He also added that students should be creative when
writing their cover letters and avoid phrases which have become
clichés like “I wish to apply.” He advised that CV’s and
application letters must be simple, targeted and contain
experiences which are relevant to the company one is applying
to.
The last part of the talk was an interactive session, where
K.S.M picked students’ minds on what constitutes a good
application letter, curriculum vitae and interview skills. It
all ended nicely with K.S.M answering questions from students.
Kwaku Sintim-Misa made a substantial impact on the student body,
especially the final year students who are preparing to enter
the job market.
Ashesi hosts launch
of Prof. Nana Araba Apt’s newest book
 On
February 14th, 2008, Ashesi University College hosted the
launch of Learning How to Play to Win a book written by
Prof. Nana Araba Apt, the University’s Dean of Academic
Affairs. The book provides a “returnee’s” view of what
impact 50 years of independence has had on Ghana. Prof. Apt
examines the fundamental issue: why is Ghana poor?
Specifically she asks: why has Ghana not achieved much
social and economic progress? Why have Ghanaians refused to
act in ways that will uplift us to greater political and
cultural heights?
The main thrust of the book’s discussion is attitudes and
behaviours and how individuals affect society’s contribution
to poverty and thus lack of progress. In Learning How to
Play to Win, Prof. Nana Araba Apt reinforces the notion that
Ghana does not need to be poor. Prof. Apt believes the
dependence in which we find ourselves as a nation is brought
forth by us and particularly so because we lack leaders who
are committed to national autonomy and real independence;
leaders who are prepared to go the extra mile in
negotiations – not only locally but also on the
international scene.
Dr. Patrick Awuah, President of the University chaired the
launch. He described Prof. Apt as a sharp-minded person
greatly dedicated to turning Africa’s fortunes round. “This
book, Learning How to Play to Win is just another classic
example of her commitment to Africa”, he emphasized.
Prof. Apt taught for many years at the University of Ghana,
Legon, where she headed the Departments of Sociology and
Social Work. She was also the first Director of the Centre
for Social Policy Studies (CSPS) at the University of Ghana,
which she set up with UNICEF funding. Her research and
publication record exemplify her commitment to issues
concerning the aged, family relations, child development and
women’s education.
The first copy of the book, autographed by the author was
sold for GH¢100.
Ashesi’s director of its Writing Centre, Prof. Molara
Ogundipe provided an excellent review of the book. She also
mentioned her wish to have the book made a required reading
for one of Ashesi’s classes sometime in the future. Profits
from the sale of the book will be donated to two
organizations, Professor Apt’s own project ‘A College for
Ama’ (CofA) and the Danny Whyte Leukaemia Foundation.
Ashesi Community Grows
February,
2008
|
The Ashesi Community is
growing and to meet the demands of our operations, the
university is happy to welcome new additions to its
community in various departments.
Afua Serwa Addae
as of February 1, 2008 will serve Ashesi as Admissions
Officer. Serwa will work with the rest of the Admissions
team to recruit some of the brightest students for
Ashesi.
Nina Chachu joins Ashesi as Head Librarian. Prior
to joining the Ashesi team, Nina worked as a Librarian
and the Manager of the British Council’s Learning
Center. She will work with a library planning team and
she will be responsible for strategic planning, resource
allocation, and the formulation of library priorities,
goals, and policies.
Emmanuel Kodzi joins Ashesi's faculty as
Assistant Professor. He holds a PhD from Purdue
University, an MSc from the University of Science and
Technology (Ghana) and the Technical University of
Braunschweig (Germany), and an MBA from the University
of Ghana. He is the 2006 recipient of the Swain Award
for leadership, academic achievement and potential for
success in a wood products manufacturing environment. Dr Kodzi has served in various managerial capacities in the
private sector. He has actively supported national
efforts to develop the wood products industry and
contributed to enhancing educational attainment through
the HND program in Ghana. In the US, he provided product
development consulting, and supported the USDA’s Small
Business Innovation Research Program as a reviewer. Dr.
Kodzi brings a diverse background to strengthen the
Business Department of Ashesi University.
Lebene Ledi returns to Ashesi Assistant Director
of Career Services, effective February 4th, 2008. Lebene
will work in the areas of community service, alumni with
regards to careers, training and workshops and employer
relations! We are glad to have her back.
Last year, a new department was created to enable us
bridge the gap between the community and our alumni. To
spearhead this department’s efforts will be Ashesi’s
first Alumni Relations Officer, Sarah Mills,
Class of 2007.
Eli Tetteh joined Ashesi in January 2008 as the
Writing Centre Officer. He regularly receives rave
recommendations from both students and faculty for his
contributions in the Writing Centre. Eli serves a a
Teaching Assistant with Prof. Yetunde Ogundipe.
Prof. Nii Yartey has joined Ashesi as Artist in
Residence. Prior to joining Ashesi's faculty,
Prof. Nii Yartey taught at the University of Ghana, and
served as Director of the Ghana Dance Ensemble and the
National Dance Company. He is the founder of the much
acclaimed Noyam Dance Ensemble. Prof. Yartey has
published several articles on contemporary African dance
and served as a visiting professor at Swarthmore
College’s Dance School. Prof. Yartey was also behind the
very different yet beautiful cultural pageantry
performed at the opening ceremony of the Ghana CAN 2008
as well as those of 2002 and 2004. |
Afua Serwa Addae
Nina Chachu
Emmanuel Kodzi
Lebene Ledi
Eli Tetteh
Sarah Mills
Prof. Nii Yartey |
Microsoft employee shares his
knowledge with Ashesi University
February,
2008
 From
January 31 - February 7 this year, Talent
Development Manager for Microsoft IT, Melerick “Mel”
Mitchell conducted a series of workshops for
students, faculty, administrators and alumni. In his
first workshop, “Careers in IT”, Mel stressed the need for
participants to stay abreast with new trends in their chosen
areas while looking at the big picture.
Participants discussed the challenges of product development
within Africa and brainstormed ways to better market ideas
and materials to a global market. The workshop focused on
career development and the tools needed to survive in the
business world.
Workshop 2, “Driving your influence in an organization” was
the most popular of the Mitchell Workshops. This workshop
looked at influence from the perspective of generating
ideas, taking initiative, working in teams and the expanding
one’s network. According to Ms. Araba Amuasi, “Workshop 2
was fantastic. Mr. Mitchell was on point and examples were
relevant. He also connected greatly with the audience. He
had us all paying attention for the whole two hour session!”
Melerick “Mel” Mitchell has been working with Microsoft for
seven years. As the Talent Development Consultant Mel
manages the Microsoft IT Talent Development Program which
focuses on developing the next generation of leaders for
Microsoft IT. In his current role Mel developed the
Microsoft IT Accelerated Professional Experiences Program
(APEX). APEX is a two year job rotation program for the top
college graduates entering IT all candidates in the APEX
participate in four job rotations and receive additional
training to enhance their technical, business, and
leadership skills.
“I look forward to coming back to Ashesi as well as telling
my friends about this experience called Ashesi. The students
here are bright and the faculty and staff body incredibly
dedicated to what they do. It’s inspirational.” Mel tells of
his Ashesi experience.
Prior to joining Microsoft, Mel Mitchell worked as an
electrical engineer for several companies. Mel holds a B.S.
in Electrical Engineering Technology from Louisiana Tech
University and a M.S. in Electrical Engineering from the
University of Nevada, Las Vegas.
Students adopt Examination Honour
Code at Ashesi
January,
2008
 In keeping with Ashesi’s
mission to educate a new generation of ethical leaders, the
faculty and executives of Ashesi University approved in November
2007 a proposal to invite selected classes at Ashesi to adopt an
Honour Code for examinations at the university. Students from
the Classes of 2011 and 2008 voted by overwhelming majorities of
80% and 84% respectively to adopt the Honour Code. Beginning in
January 2008, students from those classes will write examinations under the newly introduced Examination Honour Code.
Other
classes at Ashesi will be invited to vote on the code at a later
date.
The adoption of
the Examination Honour Code marks a significant step in the
history of Ashesi University.
A student is considered
to have violated the Examination Honour Code when he/she
exchanges information that could result in an unfair advantage
for one or more students before, during or after a test, quiz,
or exam. The Honour Code is also considered violated when a
member of the Ashesi community knowingly hides or fails to
disclose any occurrences of unauthorized exchange of information
during exams. At the end of each examination, students will
sign a document indicating whether or not they have witnessed a
violation of the honour code. Students who violate the code will
face sanctions determined by the Ashesi Judicial Committee.
To orient students
towards the honour code, the university organized a two day
seminar entitled “Making the most of your Ashesi education”
during which the entire community --students, faculty and
staff-- met to deliberate on the honour code and its
implications for the university. Students are excited and
challenged at the prospect of maintaining high ethical standards
and holding each other accountable
during examinations.
Also effective
immediately, all incoming first year students will be required
to sign on to the Examination Honour Code prior to admission to
the university, and will receive extensive orientation about the
code.
The Examination Honour Code is intended to build a high-trust
community, to put students in charge of their ethical posture
and the reputation of their alma mater, and by so doing, to take
a significant step in Ashesi’s mission to educate a new
generation of ethical leaders in Africa.
NYANI & Co donate to Ashesi University
January,
2008
 On
Wednesday, January 9, 2008, Mr. Fred Gnanih, C.E.O. of NYANI &
CO. Ltd, donated a digital photocopier and stand, and two
Kyocera multifunctional copier/scanner/fax machines to Ashesi
University College. Mr. Gnanih has been following Ashesi since
its inception in 2002. “I am impressed with Ashesi's academic
programme and what it is doing with its students. It’s
admirable. I read Ashesi’s website regularly to monitor the
university’s progress.”
Nyani & Co is a distributor of Kyocera products and office
equipment and is located in Kotobabi, Accra. The gift will be
used to improve student and faculty access to copiers and
improve office efficiency. We wish to thank Mr. Gnanih and
NYANI & Co. for their generosity.
Ashesi students selected by Goldman Sachs
International
January,
2008
Three of
the four students selected from Ghana to participate in this
year’s Goldman Sachs summer internship programme in London are
from Ashesi University. The students were selected from
hundreds of applicants who applied from universities across the
nation. Students from Ashesi University have for the past three
years won the opportunity to participate in the programme.
The three
Ashesi students selected this year are Ms. Akuba Boakye, Mr.
Charles Agyeman and Mr. Daniel Aduodeh. The three will join some
of the world’s brightest students at Goldman Sachs London later
in the year. Students are selected after a series of rigorous
interviews conducted by officials of the company. The programme
is designed to introduce excellent university students from
around the world to the workings of a leading global investment,
securities and investment management bank.
 Mr.
Kofi Baidoo, one of two Ashesi student to participate in the
Goldman Sachs internship programme last year has been offered
permanent employment with the company and leaves Ghana this
month to start his career with the leading global investment
banking, securities and investment management firm. Olivia
Morley, of Graduate Recruitment of Human Capital Management
Division of Goldman Sachs had stated “we continue to be
impressed with the calibre of students being nurtured by Ashesi
University.”
Mr. Kofi
Baidoo explains how he feels about the opportunity of working
with Goldman Sachs. “I look forward to the phenomenal experience
that is Goldman Sachs. It’s a mix of excitement as well as
anxiety. I am confident but scared at the same time because of
the very competitive environment. The standards are very high
but I know with the training received at Ashesi and a lot of
effort, I will find Goldman, another home.”
Back to top
Copyright © 1999-2008 Ashesi University Foundation. All
rights reserved.
|
