The Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC) has reaffirmed its dedication to nurturing Ghana’s future workforce by taking part in the 2025 Career and Skills Fair hosted at the University of Cape Coast (UCC). The event, organised by TEDxUniversityofCapeCoast in collaboration with UCC, was themed “Skills and Experience: Your Valuable Asset” and served as a vibrant platform for students, alumni, and industry professionals to explore career readiness in a rapidly changing job market.
Delivering the keynote address as Guest of Honour, Dr. Edward Appiah-Brafo, GNPC’s Director of Human Resources and Administration and an alumnus of UCC, challenged students to look beyond academic qualifications and focus on developing personal and professional attributes that match the evolving demands of the workplace.
“In today’s world, certificates alone are not enough,” Dr. Appiah-Brafo said. “Emotional intelligence, integrity, and adaptability are the assets that set individuals apart.” He urged students to move beyond conventional expectations particularly the outdated notion of waiting for government jobs and instead cultivate their talents into marketable skills that drive self-created opportunities. “Success,” he added, “is built on higher standards, not lower expectations.”
Touching on developments within the oil and gas industry, Dr. Appiah-Brafo noted GNPC’s increasing embrace of clean energy technologies, automation, and integrated systems. This shift, he explained, requires a new breed of professionals who are agile, ethical, and purpose-driven.
He further encouraged students to pursue mentorships, approach internships as serious career-building opportunities, and commit to lifelong learning. Ending on an inspiring note drawn from scripture, he told students, “Do not wait for the future to come to you. Step forward. Take ownership. Be bold. Be emotionally intelligent. Be ready.”
In addition to the keynote address, GNPC staff from the Human Resource and Technical Departments provided on-the-ground guidance to students, offering insights into internship openings, national service placements, and graduate trainee programs. The corporation’s booth was a hive of activity, enabling students to explore career prospects in Ghana’s upstream oil and gas sector.
GNPC’s engagement at the fair reinforces its commitment to investing in human capital development as a cornerstone for sustainable national progress.