Virtual University

Virtual University

“Passion Alone Does Not Build a Business, Think Beyond the Excitement,” Says Tonyi Senayah to Entrepreneurs

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Founder and CEO of Horseman Shoes, Tonyi Senayah, has urged aspiring entrepreneurs to move beyond the excitement of starting a business and focus on the discipline, structure, and long-term thinking required to build something sustainable.  Speaking on Springboard, Your Virtual University, with host Pastor Albert Ocran, as part of the new April series on The Entrepreneurial Mindset, he made it clear that while passion may spark the journey, it is not what sustains it. “Passion is a good starting point, but as you grow, you must shift from just mastering the craft to learning the numbers as well. If it is only about money, the first four or five years, you will not survive. You must have a greater reason for doing what you do, and when you do it right, the money will start looking for you,” he said, stressing that many young people misunderstand what it truly takes to build a business. Drawing from his early experience, Mr. Senayah recounted how excitement without proper planning nearly derailed his journey when he began taking large orders without understanding cash flow realities. He explained that delayed payments, coupled with financial commitments to suppliers and workers, created intense pressure that forced him to confront the gap between perceived profit and actual business sustainability. “I was excited about the orders and calculated my profits upfront, but I did not consider that clients would delay payment. I had taken money from people, made commitments, and when the money did not come, it became a very difficult period. That experience taught me the importance of understanding the numbers and being truthful even in hard times,” he said, adding that integrity and honest communication became his lifeline during that season. He emphasised that entrepreneurship is not built on hype but on solving real problems, noting that not every passion translates into a viable business. According to him, the ability to identify gaps and provide value is what separates lasting businesses from short-lived ventures. “Business is about solving problems for people. Identify the pain points and the value you can offer. Not every passion is viable, but when you solve a real problem, people will pay for it,” he noted, urging young entrepreneurs to pay close attention to the needs of their immediate environment as a starting point for building solutions. Mr. Senayah also challenged the rush for quick success, advocating for a deliberate approach that allows room for learning and growth. He maintained that starting small is not a weakness but an advantage, as it gives entrepreneurs the space to make mistakes early and build resilience before scaling. “When you start small, you have the room to make mistakes and learn. If you make those mistakes early, your chances of survival are higher. There is no shame in failing. You just have to learn from it and move forward,” he said. He dismissed the notion of waiting for the perfect moment, describing it as one of the biggest traps for potential entrepreneurs. He encouraged decisive action backed by conviction, rather than prolonged hesitation. “There is no right time. If you keep waiting for the perfect moment, it may never come. Once you have the conviction, just start. You will face challenges, but you must always find a way to keep going,” he said. He cautioned against the growing culture of appearances and shortcuts. According to him, sustainable success is built on truth, humility, and a willingness to learn continuously. “Be true to yourself. When you are struggling, let people know. Do not pretend. Learn, stay humble, and keep improving. Always start small, be consistent, be patient, and never give up,” he advised. 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 formed part of the new April series dubbed “The Entrepreneurial Mindset.” Marketing & Communications Springboard Road Show Foundation

Hangout

“Don’t rush the process; take time to build your skill” — Nate the Barber Urges Young Entrepreneurs

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Nathaniel Osei, entrepreneur and founder of Nate the Barber’s Place, has advised young people to resist the growing pressure for quick success, stressing that real and lasting businesses are built through time, discipline, and a deep commitment to learning. Speaking on Springboard Hangout with host Comfort Ocran, he pointed out that many aspiring entrepreneurs are eager to see results but are unwilling to stay long enough in the learning phase to truly understand their craft. According to him, this impatience often becomes the very reason many ventures struggle to stand the test of time. “A lot of people nowadays are rushing through the process, and that’s where they miss it,” he said, explaining that the process is not a delay but the very foundation of excellence. Drawing from his own journey, Mr. Osei shared that his path into barbering started at a very young age and was shaped by years of practice, observation, and sacrifice. He revealed that he spent close to five years working without pay, not because there was no opportunity to earn, but because his focus at the time was to become exceptionally good at what he was doing. “I worked for free for almost five years. At the time, it was just passion. I loved it so much, I didn’t really care about being paid,” he noted, adding that those years gave him a level of experience that money could not buy. He explained that beyond skill, the process also builds discipline and clarity. By the time he stepped into paid work and later entrepreneurship, he was not experimenting blindly but working from a place of confidence and understanding. “I learned everything I needed 10 years before I started my business,” he said. Mr. Osei further encouraged young people to develop a strong sense of identity in their work, rather than following every new trend. In his view, knowing what you stand for and committing to it is what sets serious entrepreneurs apart from those who are easily distracted. “You have to understand what you stand for and stay true to it, because trends will always change,” he explained. He also highlighted consistency as a key driver of growth, noting that success is not built on occasional effort but on the ability to show up repeatedly, even when progress is slow or unnoticed. “You have to always show up, no matter what the situation is. That is what builds you over time,” he said. Reflecting on the challenges he faced, including setbacks and difficult working environments, the accomplished barber said those experiences were necessary in shaping his mindset and preparing him for leadership. He urged young entrepreneurs to stop seeing hardship as a sign to quit, and rather see it as part of the training. “It’s always important to pay attention to the process, because the process is what is going to make you who you are,” he stated. He maintained that for young people who are willing to commit to learning, stay disciplined, and trust the journey, there is a real opportunity to build businesses that command respect and deliver lasting value. About Springboard Hangout Springboard Hangout is a funducative, youth-centred show hosted by Comfort Ocran. It features inspiring stories, practical skills, and real-life experiences aimed at educating, entertaining, and equipping the next generation. The programme airs every Saturday at 4:00 PM on Joy Prime TV and on the Springboard Channel on Facebook and YouTube. Marketing & Communications Springboard Road Show Foundation

Virtual University

“You Can Only Soar as High as Your Mind Will Take You” — Essie Anno Sackey Urges Young Women to Think Bigger

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Co-founder of Legacy Girls’ College, Essie Anno Sackey, has called on young people, especially women, to rise above limitations and pursue their full potential with confidence, purpose, and a strong sense of responsibility. Speaking on Springboard, Your Virtual University, with host Pastor Albert Ocran on the final episode of the March series on women in leadership, she stressed that the future belongs to those who are prepared to think beyond boundaries and act boldly on their aspirations. According to her, the foundation of leadership begins with the mind, and how far a person is willing to stretch their thinking determines how far they will go in life. She encouraged young people not to allow fear, background, or past experiences to hold them back, but rather to draw strength from them. “The world is at your feet. Take hold of every experience, learn, and grow. Have the confidence to step out to do what is in your heart. Know what is in your heart and reach for it. You can only soar as high as your mind will take you. So let your mind soar,” she said. She explained that leadership today requires more than academic achievement, noting that education must go beyond the classroom to include character, confidence, and the ability to solve problems. In her view, true education equips individuals to interact effectively with others, resolve conflicts, and take initiative in uncertain situations. “Education helps you to explore beyond your own horizon. It is not just academics. It is how to live with people, how to interact, how to bond, how to settle disputes, and how to lead among your peers. That confidence to know you can find solutions, even when you do not have all the answers, is what makes the difference,” she noted. Drawing from her leadership journey in both aviation and education, she highlighted the importance of courage and continuous learning. She admitted that leadership often comes with uncertainty, but insisted that growth comes from being willing to step forward and seek guidance when needed. “You do not have to know everything. What matters is knowing where to go for the right information and being willing to learn. Each experience should teach you something. Once you learn, you move forward stronger,” she said. On the broader issue of national development, she described what she considers a “good society” as one where every individual has access to basic needs such as education, sanitation, and opportunities to improve their lives. She pointed out that even small, intentional efforts can transform lives and create lasting impact. “The good society is one where we all do our part to ensure others can live with dignity. Sometimes it takes very little to change someone’s life. A small investment, the right support, and guidance can create a ripple effect that transforms families and communities,” she explained. Reflecting on the progress of women in leadership, she acknowledged that while significant strides have been made, challenges such as workplace inequality and social barriers still exist. However, she expressed confidence in the next generation of women, describing them as bold, capable, and full of potential. “The young people today are fearless. They have a can-do spirit, and when you engage them, you see that they are just as capable as anyone anywhere in the world. We must keep telling them that they are good enough and capable of doing great things,” she added. 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 (Facebook & YouTube)  and at 9 PM on Joy News TV. The discussion formed part of the special International Women’s Day series dubbed Exploring Women in Leadership. Marketing & Communications Springboard Road Show Foundation

Virtual University

“Nobody Owes You Anything, Build Your Own Path” — Constance Swaniker Charges Young People

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Founder of the Design and Technology Institute, Constance Swaniker, has urged young people to take responsibility for their future by building skills, pursuing purpose, and creating opportunities for themselves rather than waiting for employment. Speaking on Springboard, Your Virtual University, with host Pastor Albert Ocran as part of the ongoing Exploring Women in Leadership series, she said the future of work demands a shift in mindset, especially among young Africans entering an uncertain job market. According to her, the traditional expectation of securing ready-made jobs is no longer reliable, making it critical for young people to think differently about work and success. She explained that many of the jobs available in the future will require high-level skills that technology cannot easily replace, particularly in areas such as welding, plumbing, and electrical work. She pointed out that the reality of the labour market is already visible, citing the overwhelming number of applicants chasing limited opportunities as a sign of what lies ahead. In her view, the answer lies in equipping young people with practical skills and an entrepreneurial mindset that allows them to create value and employ others. “We are entering a world where jobs are limited and highly competitive. Young people must begin to see themselves not as job seekers but as job creators. When you combine skills with the right mindset, you are not waiting to be chosen; you are positioning yourself to build something of your own,” she said. Reflecting on her own journey, Madam Swaniker said she did not start out as a top academic performer and only came into her own later in life. She described herself as a late developer who had to find her voice and build confidence from within, adding that her story should encourage young people who may not fit traditional academic expectations. “I was not the A student people expected to succeed. I had to discover my strength and prove to myself that I could become something. You must be your own biggest cheerleader because at the end of the day, you are the one responsible for your journey,” she noted. She also emphasised that purpose plays a central role in leadership, explaining that her work is driven by a commitment to transforming the lives of young people. For her, leadership is not about personal success but about creating pathways for others to grow and thrive. Beyond technical skills, she stressed the importance of character, discipline, and values in shaping successful individuals. She revealed that a significant portion of training at her institute focuses on soft skills such as communication, emotional intelligence, and personal conduct. “Technical ability alone is not enough. We are building people who can think, communicate, and carry themselves well. When you are not there, your values must speak for you. That is what makes the difference in the real world,” she explained. Touching on gender inclusion, she highlighted the growing number of young women entering traditionally male-dominated fields such as welding and industrial work, describing it as a powerful sign of progress. She said many of these young women are excelling and redefining what is possible. She noted that seeing confident, skilled women in such spaces is not just inspiring but necessary for national development, adding that storytelling around these successes must be amplified to change long-held perceptions. Madam Swaniker further called for a collective national effort to support young people, stressing that government, industry, and individuals all have a role to play in preparing the next generation. “If we say it takes a village to raise a child, then we are that village. Everyone of us has a responsibility to create opportunities, mentor, and support young people so they can build a better future,” she said. 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 (Facebook & YouTube)  and at 9 PM on Joy News TV. The discussion formed part of the special International Women’s Day series dubbed HERizon: Exploring women in leadership. Marketing & Communications Springboard Road Show Foundation

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‘Business Must Be Built Around People, Not Profit’ Says Gwen Addo

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Founder and CEO of Hair Senta, Gwen Addo, has urged entrepreneurs and aspiring leaders to build businesses that place people at the centre rather than profits, saying long-term success comes from service, trust, and a willingness to keep learning. Speaking on Springboard, Your Virtual University, with host, Ps. Albert Ocran, as part of the ongoing Exploring Women in Leadership series marking International Women’s Day, Mrs. Addo reflected on her journey from banking into entrepreneurship and shared lessons on leadership, innovation, and personal growth. According to her, one of the biggest mistakes many entrepreneurs make is starting businesses solely with profit in mind. “You don’t start a business thinking about profits. That is the wrong way to do it. I saw a problem and realised there were people who needed options with their hair and extensions. I tapped into that need and also saw the opportunity to build a brand around trust and consistency,” she said. Mrs. Addo explained that the decision to leave banking and venture into the beauty industry did not happen overnight. Instead, she started the business on a small scale while still working in the corporate sector, testing products among colleagues before eventually committing to it fully. “I didn’t just wake up and quit my job. I started small. I ordered a few pieces of hair and tested them with colleagues to see how it would go. When I saw the potential, I planned and realised this could become something bigger,” she noted. The entrepreneur also highlighted the importance of balancing customer acquisition with retention. “A lot of companies focus only on acquiring new clients, but retention is just as important. When you retain clients while still attracting new ones, your market share grows naturally,” she said. Reflecting on the growth of Hair Senta, Mrs. Addo added that the business evolved significantly once she began focusing on what customers actually wanted rather than what she personally believed the market needed. “In the beginning, I created a brand around what I wanted, not what people wanted. The business really opened up when I began listening to people and understanding their needs,” she said. She added that as the company expanded into partnerships and international distribution, her leadership approach also changed. “As you grow, leadership changes you whether you like it or not. I began to realize that people in different industries were watching what we were doing. That made me more intentional about how I lead because there are people learning from the journey,” she said. The CEO also credited her Christian faith as a major influence on her leadership philosophy, explaining that it shifted her perspective from ownership to stewardship. “Faith has humbled me and made me realize that I am not an owner but a steward. When you see yourself that way, it becomes natural to operate with integrity and to serve people well,” she said. According to her, this mindset has helped her maintain resilience even during difficult periods in business. “As a person of faith, I believe everything works together for good. Even when something looks like failure, it may simply mean that path was not meant for you,” she added. 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 (Facebook & YouTube)  and at 9 PM on Joy News TV. The discussion formed part of the special International Women’s Day series dubbed HERizon: Exploring women in leadership. Marketing & Communications Springboard Road Show Foundation

Virtual University

‘Competence Has No Gender’ — Janet Sunkwa-Mills and Justine Aniaku  Call for Purpose-Driven Leadership on International Women’s Day

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President of the Executive Women’s Network, Janet Sunkwa – Mills, and educator and social entrepreneur Justine Mauda Afia Aniaku, have called on women to pursue leadership grounded in competence, service, and intentional impact, stressing that true leadership is built on value and not gender.  They made the call on Springboard, Your Virtual University, during the International Women’s Day 2026 celebration, a special edition of the ongoing Exploring Women in Leadership series, with host, Ps. Albert Ocran. Mrs. Sunkwa-Mills emphasised that competence remains the strongest response to barriers women sometimes encounter in professional environments. According to her, organisations ultimately seek people who can deliver value and contribute meaningfully to their goals. “I always say and believe strongly that competence has no gender. If you are good and you can add value in a way that responds to the needs and the vision of the organisation, then you deserve a seat at the table,” she said. Reflecting on her leadership journey, she explained that the Executive Women’s Network, which will mark its 10th anniversary this year, has grown from a small group of women focused on career development into a broader platform committed to mentoring and leadership development for younger women. She noted that over time, the network realised that celebrating the achievements of successful women alone was not enough, and that deliberate investment in emerging leaders had become necessary. “We realised that operating only from a place of personal development had limited impact. So, we expanded our focus to mentoring younger women and building the next generation of leaders,” she said. Through initiatives such as the EWN Elevate mentorship programme and partnerships with educational institutions, the network has supported hundreds of young women and girls across the country. According to Madam Justine Aniaku, leadership has been expressed through service and the empowerment of vulnerable women through practical skills training. The educator explained that her initiative focuses on equipping women with handicraft skills that allow them to generate income and support their families, particularly women who often have limited access to economic opportunities. “For me, it has never been about the money but the impact. The joy of knowing that because of something I did, there is food on someone’s table is deeply fulfilling,” she said. She recalled receiving a message from one of the women she had trained, which affirmed the significance of her work. “One woman sent me an audio message saying, ‘Madam, because of you, I now have food for my children.’ That alone is enough motivation for me to continue,” she said. Madam. Justine also shared her personal journey, explaining that she became physically challenged at the age of two and a half but refused to allow the circumstance to limit her ambitions. With strong encouragement from her mother and a commitment to education, she continued to develop her skills and later began teaching them to others through both physical training sessions and online learning platforms. “I discovered my skills early and decided to use them. When distance prevented people from attending training physically, I began creating videos so they could still learn wherever they were,” she explained. Both women also reflected on how their leadership journeys have shaped their character and outlook. 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 (Facebook & YouTube)  and at 9 PM on Joy News TV. The discussion formed part of the special International Women’s Day series dubbed HERizon: Exploring women in leadership.

Virtual University

‘Entrepreneurship Is an Illusion If You Want Free Time’ – Sally Mercer Quagraine

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Chief Executive Officer and Founder of Dream Desserts, Madam Sally Mercer Quagraine, has cautioned women against entering entrepreneurship under the assumption that it offers flexibility and personal freedom, insisting that business ownership can be more demanding than formal employment. Speaking on Springboard, Your Virtual University, with host Ps. Albert Ocran, as part of the March HERizon series ahead of International Women’s Day, exploring women in leadership, she described the popular belief that running a business guarantees more time for oneself as misleading, stressing that entrepreneurship often demands greater structure, accountability, and personal sacrifice than many anticipate. “Entrepreneurship is an illusion if you think you will have more time for yourself. If what you are doing is in demand, it will demand you. You must plan, discipline yourself, and accept that it comes with responsibility,” she stated. According to her, the reality of business ownership involves overhead costs, staff management, quality control, and continuous improvement, not just independence. Madam Quagraine stressed that once a business moves from a home setup to a commercial space, the stakes become higher and the margin for error reduces. “You are no longer playing at it. You have rent, overheads, and people to pay. That demands planning and discipline,” she noted. She also addressed the lingering stigma around technical and hands-on work, arguing that society must rethink the notion that working with one’s hands reflects academic weakness. On leadership and growth, she underscored the importance of humility and openness to feedback, especially in service-driven industries. “If a client is not happy, there is something there for you to learn. You may not like how it sounds, but feedback helps you improve. Rejecting it can cost you your standards and your clients,” she said. She urged young women to resist the pressure for quick financial gains and instead focus on building enduring enterprises. “The culture now is about quick money. But building something meaningful takes patience. It is not easy, but if it is your passion, stay with it and trust God with the gift He has given you,” she said. 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 (Facebook & YouTube)  and at 9 PM on Joy News TV. Marketing & Communications Springboard Road Show Foundation

Virtual University

Conflict Is Necessary to Build Love, Says Dr. Asuquo Udofia

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Counselling psychologist Dr. Asuquo Udofia has stated that conflict is not the enemy of relationships but rather a necessary ingredient for building stronger and more mature unions. Speaking on Springboard, Your Virtual University, with host Pastor. Albert Ocran, on conflict management in relationships, Dr. Udofia explained that disagreement is inevitable wherever two individuals with different backgrounds, values, and expectations come together. “As wide as human existence on earth,” he said when asked how widespread conflict is, noting that every human being will experience disagreement at some point. He stressed that conflict in itself is not destructive. Rather, it is the inability to manage it that damages relationships. “Conflict is necessary to build a relationship. The maturity that will be found in that conflict is what determines the love and not the absence of conflict,” he stated. According to him, most relationship conflicts stem from unmet needs, unmet values, unmet expectations, and unexpressed emotions. He explained that individuals enter relationships with spoken and unspoken expectations, as well as unconscious triggers shaped by childhood experiences and past trauma. “The root cause could be far away from the symptoms,” he said, adding that some recurring issues may be linked to patterns that have run through generations Dr. Udofia identified poor communication as a major contributor to relationship breakdowns. Instead of blaming a partner during disagreements, he advised couples to take personal responsibility for expressing how they feel. Drawing from his professional experience, Dr. Udofia noted that many couples seek counselling only as a last resort after conflicts have deepened. He recommended regular relationship evaluations, open communication, and shared vision building as preventive measures. “Believe that it is doable, that you can walk through this challenging moment,” he urged couples, adding that pride, name-calling, and shame often cause more damage than the conflict itself. 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 (Facebook & YouTube)  and at 9 PM on Joy News TV.

Virtual University

Trust and Consistency, Key to Ghana’s Progress, Says David Ofosu-Dorte

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Founder and Executive Chairman of AB & David Africa, David Ofosu-Dorte, says Ghana’s development depends on trust, consistency, and unity rather than constant shifts in policy direction. Speaking on Springboard, Your Virtual University with Rev. Albert Ocran, Mr. Ofosu-Dorte emphasized that national progress thrives when leaders build and sustain public confidence through their actions. He explained that economic growth is driven more by hope and trust than by statistics. “The entire economy is about hope and confidence. When people are hopeful, they invest; when they lose hope, they withdraw. That’s when economies decline,” he said. Mr. Ofosu-Dorte stressed that political leaders must act consistently and transparently to sustain hope among citizens. “Trust cannot be commanded. It is acquired through the consistency of your actions. When there is no trust, the vision perishes,” he noted. He argued that Ghana’s challenge is not the absence of vision but the failure to remain committed to it. “We don’t fail because we lack vision. Every Ghanaian leader has had one. We fail because we abandon the vision when challenges arise,” he said. On economic reforms, the business strategist urged leaders to view the government’s 24-hour economy policy as a productivity initiative rather than a political slogan. “The less productive a country is, the more demand outstrips supply. If we focus on productivity, we can drive growth faster. The 24-hour economy should be a productivity program,” he advised. Mr. Ofosu-Dorte also called for greater unity in national discourse, saying politics often undermines collective progress. “Unity is more important than gold. If you cannot rally people around the vision, forget the vision. Disunity destroys the mission,” he cautioned. He recommended that major national policies be implemented with bipartisan support to ensure continuity across governments. “Bring together leaders of both parties, technocrats, and traditional authorities on long-term projects. Once the nation owns the policy, no new government will abandon it,” he said. About Springboard, Your Virtual University Springboard, Your Virtual University, is a weekly motivational and personal development broadcast hosted by Rev. Albert Ocran. It airs every Sunday at 7 PM on Springboard Channel (YouTube) and Joy FM, and at 9 PM on Joy News TV. Springboard Road Show Foundation Marketing and Communications

Virtual University

Education Must Move Beyond Memorization in the Age of AI, Say Experts

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Education experts Anis Haffar and Dr. Nefertiti Puplampu say artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping education and must drive a shift from rote memorization to problem-solving and innovation. Speaking on Springboard your Virtual University, with Rev. Albert Ocran, Mr. Haffar explained that AI has made the old model of cramming facts obsolete. “We don’t need to memorize information anymore. AI gives us the information we need, but we must know how to articulate our needs and use it meaningfully. The students must now be in the driver’s seat,” he said. He pointed to learner-led education models such as the International Baccalaureate, which require students to apply creativity, activity, and service to real-world challenges. “Education must have an application component. At the end of the day, your degree is the solution or service you provide that makes life easier for others,” he added. Dr. Puplampu, Head of the Institute for Advanced Teaching and Learning, highlighted the urgent need to align curricula with industry and societal demands. She warned that while students are adapting quickly to new technologies, many educators are struggling to keep pace. “The pace of change is so fast that the same person who started teaching under one model is now being required to adjust to new demands. If educators and policymakers don’t retool, the system will reject innovation,” she said. She further explained that learner-centered methods not only improve retention but also empower students to lead. “When students are given the chance to teach, apply concepts, and engage in real-world projects, retention rates can reach as high as 90 percent. It’s not about teachers knowing everything anymore. It’s about creating environments where students can think critically and solve problems,” she noted. Both speakers agreed that AI should be seen as an enabler, not a threat. According to Dr. Puplampu, AI-driven tools can help teachers personalize instruction and scale innovative teaching models globally. About Springboard, Your Virtual University Springboard, Your Virtual University is a weekly motivational and personal development broadcast hosted by Rev. Albert Ocran. It airs every Sunday at 7 PM on Springboardzone (YouTube) and Joy FM, and at 9 PM on Joy News TV. By Genevieve Mensah