Employees Must Be Given Ownership, Not Just Instructions, Says Lily Nutakor
Registrar of Central University, Madam Lily Nutakor, has called on organizational leaders to move beyond simply assigning tasks and instead create opportunities for employees to take ownership of their work, adding that institutions achieve greater success when people feel personally invested in outcomes. Speaking on Springboard, Your Virtual University, with host Pastor Albert Ocran, Madam Nutakor said one of the biggest responsibilities of leaders is creating an environment where employees are empowered to contribute ideas, innovate, and participate meaningfully in decision-making. According to her, institutions thrive when workers see organizational success as their own responsibility rather than merely carrying out instructions from management. “If we have people who treat the institution as theirs, you can be sure they can move the institution forward,” she said. She described intrapreneurship as the heartbeat of successful institutions, explaining that innovation, resilience, relevance, and long-term growth often come from employees who are given the freedom to contribute beyond their formal job descriptions. She noted that leaders must deliberately create room for people to own processes and bring forward ideas that can improve organizational performance. “You give people the opportunity to own the processes. You get people to innovate,” she stated. Drawing lessons from successful global organizations, she explained that some of the world’s most impactful innovations emerged because employees were encouraged to pursue ideas they were passionate about and were trusted to contribute to the growth of their organizations. The Central University Registrar stressed that involving employees in organizational processes does more than improve performance. It also creates commitment, accountability, and a stronger sense of belonging. “When people are given that opportunity, they give off their best,” she said. Madam Nutakor further noted that leadership decisions should not be limited to boardroom discussions. She explained that every decision made by management affects people throughout an organization and must therefore take into account the broader impact on employees and stakeholders. She urged managers to adopt a more inclusive leadership style that allows people at all levels to contribute meaningfully to institutional growth and success. She added that organizations that encourage ownership, participation, and innovation are more likely to remain resilient and relevant in a rapidly changing environment. Watch the full episode here https://www.youtube.com/live/HOJDxI7lZOw?si=jXTMcsg_5p3M1AkY About Springboard, Your Virtual University Springboard, Your Virtual University, is a weekly motivational and personal development broadcast produced by the Springboard Road Show Foundation and hosted by Pastor. Albert Ocran. The broadcast airs every Sunday at 7 PM on Joy 99.7 FM and on Springboard Channel & Albert Ocran (Facebook & YouTube) and at 9 PM on Joy News TV. The discussion forms part of an ongoing series exploring the various roles of managers in organizations and the skills required to lead people, drive performance, and achieve institutional goals. Through conversations with experienced leaders, the series provides practical lessons for current and aspiring managers. Marketing & Communications Springboard Road Show Foundation