The Centre for Gender and Career Mentorship has organized a two-day capacity-building workshop on Leadership and Effective Communication for academic and administrative staff of the University for Development Studies (UDS). The workshop which began on 27th September 2023 was held at the UDS Guest House on the Tamale Campus.

Present at the event were the Director of the Centre for Gender and Career Mentorship Dr. Esther Amoako, the Director of Academic Planning and Quality Assurance Prof. Shamsu-Deen Ziblim, the Dean of the School of Economics Prof. Samuel Donkoh, and many other academic and administrative staff.

The first day was dedicated to administrative staff, featuring a stimulating panel discussion titled "Career Progression: Where/When do I begin, what do I need to do?" The panel comprised luminaries in the field, including Dr. Amos Alale Asamari of the Guidance and Counselling Unit, Madam Juliana Abilla Buame, Faculty Officer, School of Engineering, and Ms. Stephanie Adongo of the University Library, with Mr. Abdul-Hayi Moomen, the Director of Public Affairs, skillfully moderating the discussion.

The panelists emphasized the importance need for administrators to be abreast of changing trends in administration and learn new skills in order to adapt to the new trends. The encouraged the staff to thoroughly read institutional manuals in order to know the dos and don’ts of the University. According to the panelists, this knowledge will empower employees to know their rights and responsibilities and reduce the risk of exploitation at the workplace.

Furthermore, the panelists encouraged administrators to be vigilant observers of their work environment, urging them to report issues that have the tendency to undermine their work. They unequivocally stated that adopting an 'I don't care' attitude is detrimental to themselves, emphasizing the significance of engagement and the mantra, "See something, say something." Additionally, they urged staff to foster respect for their leaders and colleagues, irrespective of personal relationships outside the workplace.

Mr. Abdul-Hayi Moomen, during his presentation, reminded participants that words carry meaning based on context. He emphasized the importance of mindful communication, highlighting the impact of the recipient and the environment on the message's interpretation, aligning with the panel's advice on effective workplace interactions.

The second day was tailored for academic staff, featuring a thought-provoking panel discussion titled "Academic Communication for Career Progression: What is the roadmap - when/where do I begin, what do I need?" Esteemed academics, including Dr. Gordana Kranjac Berisavljevic, Prof. Samuel Donkoh, Prof. Shamsudeen Ziblim, and Prof. Terry Ansah, enriched the discourse, expertly moderated by Dr. Cecilia Alima Issaka.

The panel stressed the significance of honing writing skills, particularly in scientific and abstract contexts. They underscored the value of clear, concise communication that effectively conveys the intended message.

The panel touched on the importance of character, extolling the virtues of humility as essential qualities for academic success. Humility, they asserted, is a virtue to be cherished by all.

Dr. Edward Mahama delivered an enlightening presentation on "Showing up for Leadership Positions: How do I build my leadership and communication skills, what do I need?" Dr. Mahama drew a distinction between ordinary leaders and good leaders, emphasizing the imperative of leadership for personal and institutional growth. He encouraged participants to stay true to themselves when aspiring to leadership roles and to prioritize personal growth over monetary gains.

In conclusion, the Centre for Gender and Career Mentorship's two-day workshop left an indelible mark on the academic and administrative staff, equipping them with invaluable insights and skills essential for professional advancement.

Story by:
Ali Abdur Razaq Danbo (UDS Media)