DCE-UEW Seminar Empowers Students to Seize Global Opportunities

Dr. Ernest Koranteng, Faculty Adviser at the Faculty of Science Education (FSE), explained that the initiative marked a new phase of student engagement in the Department. He emphasised that the creation of a vibrant student society within the Department would provide learners with a stronger global appeal, offering them the opportunity to interact with chemists around the world. According to him, such platforms were critical for building networks, developing professional skills and connecting students to career-enhancing opportunities.

Dr. Koranteng particularly urged students to take advantage of the day’s presentations which were tailored to sharpen their ability to make informed choices about postgraduate education and to craft compelling CVs for both academic and professional pathways. “This is an opportunity to develop your skills as chemists and as future teachers. Take advantage and learn so that, at the end of the day, you will be well prepared to take the right decisions that shape your future,” he advised.

Prof. Victus B. Samlafo, Head of DCE-UEW and chairman of the seminar, highlighted the importance of belonging to subject and professional associations as a means of staying connected, informed and competitive. He explained that such associations organise conferences and workshops where new scientific knowledge is often first shared, giving members the advantage of being among the earliest to learn about innovations in the field.

He further stressed that professional associations serve as credible voices to bargain for better conditions of service using the Ghana Medical Association as an example.

Prof. Samlafo also underscored the value of recognition and credibility that comes with association membership, noting that it enhances the employability of graduates. “If you are looking for a job and your CV indicates membership of relevant associations, it speaks volumes about your seriousness and commitment to your field,” he remarked. Drawing from his own professional journey, he recounted how the strength of his CV once changed the course of an interview, underscoring the transformative power of a well-crafted document.

On postgraduate education, Prof. Samlafo explained that further studies lead to specialisation in diverse areas such as green chemistry, medicinal chemistry, polymer science, nanotechnology and chemical biology. He encouraged students to carefully consider whether to study locally or abroad, cautioning them against rushing into opportunities without understanding the challenges and commitments attached, particularly with scholarships tied to language proficiency.

The Head of DCE-UEW also reminded students to take their laboratory reports seriously, stressing that diligence in small academic tasks builds the foundation for future research success.

Mr. Daniel Ewusa Obeng, a level 200 chemistry student, provided an introduction to the American Chemical Society (ACS) and its goals. He highlighted the history of the society, founded in 1876 and its growth into one of the world’s largest scientific communities committed to advancing chemistry for the benefit of humanity. He emphasised that ACS creates opportunities for scientists across the globe, irrespective of race or gender and has had distinguished leaders from diverse backgrounds.

Mr. Obeng explained that ACS seeks to elevate the reputation of science, enhance community engagement, empower scientists through resources and scholarships and promote collaboration to solve pressing global challenges. Using relatable examples, he reminded his colleagues that chemistry underpins daily life, from clean drinking water to medicine and is not limited to classroom equations or laboratory assignments.

The seminar also featured insightful presentations from Dr. Bright Ankudze on “Beyond the Lab Coat: How to Choose a Postgraduate Path (MSc, PhD, MBA)” and Mr. Alfred Appiah on “Crafting a Compelling CV: Tips and Strategies.” Their sessions provided students with practical guidance on navigating career choices and building strong professional profiles.

Collectively, the contributions of the speakers reinforced UEW’s mission of preparing graduates who are not only academically sound but also globally competitive, professionally grounded and socially impactful. Through initiatives such as this seminar, the Department of Chemistry Education continues to inspire students to embrace lifelong learning, cultivate professional networks and position themselves as innovative problem-solvers for Ghana and the world.