The Institute of Distance Learning (IDL) at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi (KNUST) has launched the maiden edition of its Professional Add-On Seminar Series, drawing more than 9,000 students in a strong start to an initiative designed to boost employability and industry readiness.
Held virtually on Saturday, February 7, and Sunday, February 8, 2026, the two-day seminar attracted 9,233 participants across 12 programme-based groups, making it one of IDL’s most highly patronised student development initiatives in recent years.
Reintroduced as part of IDL’s renewed strategic direction, the seminar series is aimed at exposing students to real-world industry practice and bridging the gap between academic training and the demands of the workplace.
Director of IDL, Prof. Anthony Andrews, said the initiative was designed to complement classroom teaching with practical industry perspectives.
“These Professional Add-Ons are special seminars organised for our students to expose them to real industry practice. We invite experienced industry players to share perspectives that complement what is taught in the classroom. This ensures that our students are not only academically prepared but professionally grounded for the world of work,” he said.
The maiden edition brought together seasoned professionals and institutional leaders from across key sectors. They included Mr. Daniel Yaw Domelevo, Board Chairman of the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO); Mr. Augustine Addo, President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants, Ghana; Mr. David Adade Boateng of AngloGold Ashanti; Mr. Duke Agyeman Fredua, Director of Procurement at KNUST; and Group Captain Nii Adjei Aryeetey of the Ghana Air Force Headquarters.
Students participated through 12 programme-based groups, a structure that helped tailor discussions to specific fields of study and encouraged deeper engagement.
The seminar recorded 6,164 participants on the first day and 3,069 on the second. Several sessions were described as highly interactive, with students calling for longer engagements in future editions.
Although organisers encountered a few logistical setbacks, including intermittent internet disruptions affecting moderators, Zoom capacity limits, occasional power outages and time constraints, these challenges did not derail the programme. In some cases, groups switched to alternative arrangements such as YouTube streaming to ensure continuity.
Students praised the seminar for delivering practical, industry-aligned insights, clearer career direction and guidance on professional pathways.
The successful rollout of the inaugural Professional Add-On Seminar Series underscores IDL’s commitment to strengthening industry partnerships and equipping students with relevant, future-oriented skills for the world of work.
IDL says it intends to build on the momentum in subsequent editions as it continues to explore innovative approaches to open, distance and professional learning.
