The KNUST School of Business (KSB) has launched its Digital Skills Lab (DIGILAB) to equip students with essential digital competencies and prepare them for success in the rapidly evolving digital economy.
The launch marks another milestone in KSB's efforts to position itself as a leading business school in Africa and a hub for digital innovation and skills development.
Professor Ahmed Agyapong, Dean of the KNUST School of Business, highlighted the significance of the facility, describing it as a strategic investment in the future of KSB students.
"The launch of our Digital Skills Lab is not merely about inaugurating a facility; it embodies our commitment to equipping our students with the skills they need to thrive in this rapidly evolving digital landscape," he stated.
Professor Agyapong noted that the establishment of the lab aligns with the Vice-Chancellor's vision of integrating technology into teaching, learning and institutional development.
He explained that a tracer study conducted by the school revealed that although KSB graduates perform exceptionally well academically, many lack the digital competencies required in today's job market.
"We established this lab to bridge that gap and create job creators rather than mere job seekers," he emphasized.
Dr. John Serbe Marfo, Coordinator of the Digital Skills Lab, stressed the need to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and industry demands, noting that many graduates possess strong theoretical foundations but lack practical digital skills.
"The KSB Digital Skills Lab has been established as a centre for practical learning, innovation, collaboration and digital empowerment. It is a space where students can move beyond theory to practice and acquire industry-relevant skills," he said.
Dr. Marfo explained that the facility will offer training opportunities in emerging areas such as artificial intelligence, data analytics, digital marketing, cybersecurity, cloud computing, business intelligence and digital entrepreneurship.
He noted that the initiative is designed to enhance employability and workforce readiness by ensuring that graduates leave KSB with both academic qualifications and practical digital capabilities.
"Our vision is that graduates of the KNUST School of Business will leave not only with degrees but also with valuable digital skills that position them to secure employment, create enterprises and lead digital transformation initiatives," he stated.
Dr. Marfo encouraged students to take advantage of the facility, describing it as a platform for innovation, collaboration and enterprise development.
Speaking on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Samuel Asare-Nkansah commended KSB for its foresight in establishing the facility, describing it as a timely intervention that aligns with the University's commitment to digital transformation, global relevance and graduate employability.
He emphasized that digital skills have become indispensable for leadership, internationalization and employability in the 21st century.
"The establishment of this Digital Skills Lab is a testament to our collective commitment to preparing students for the future. Digital skills are no longer optional; they are essential for leadership, innovation and success in today's interconnected world," he stated.
Professor Asare-Nkansah said the lab is expected to provide opportunities for training and innovation in emerging fields such as artificial intelligence (AI), robotics and communication technology, creating avenues for both students and staff to develop industry-relevant competencies.
He added that the facility will serve as a catalyst for creativity, entrepreneurship and technological advancement while contributing to national and global economic development.
