National Service Personnel of the University of Cape Coast (UCC) have been advised to build valuable networks as they form part of the engines through which they could progress in society.
They were urged to respect networks as they built them.
Organised by the University of Cape Coast (UCC) in collaboration with TAGDev 2.0 programme, the Regional Universities Forum for Capacity Building in Agriculture (RUFORUM), and the Mastercard Foundation, the second day of the four-day capacity-building workshop aimed at equipping participants with essential networking and personal development skills.
Mr. Jonathan Akure
During an interactive session on the theme, "Personal Mastery (Goal Setting) and Reflection, Growth Mindset Development, Time Management, and Focus”, the Chief Executive Officer of Gimel Entrepreneurship Consultancy, Mr. Jonathan Akure, who gave the advice, noted that goal setting was a cornerstone to personal and professional success, stating, "It is important to set goals because they will help you work hard and serve as motivation."
Mr. Akure also introduced participants to the SMART framework for effective goal setting, which involves crafting goals that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound.
To deepen understanding, he complimented his presentation with real-life examples and case study questions, enabling participants to relate the concepts to practical scenarios.
A section of participants in the workshop
Touching on "Collaborative Team Development Using Interdisciplinary Projects and Leadership Programmes," Mr. Akure led participants to explore the steps of design thinking, which include empathy, define, ideate, prototype, test, and implement. The trainees were organised into groups and tasked to develop business ideas using the design thinking process. The facilitator engaged and inspired participants to think innovatively through teamwork.
Various teams presented their business ideas, demonstrating creativity and teamwork. The interactive format provided an opportunity for participants to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world challenges.
The workshop, which forms part of efforts to empower young leaders in agriculture and related fields, has continued to receive commendation from participants for its practical approach and relevance. They expressed their excitement for the remaining days, anticipating further opportunities to build their capacities and network with peers and experts.
Source: Documentation and Information Section