The future of this country depends on its willingness to harness the new information and communication technologies to advance its development, President of the Ghana Technology University College (GTUC) Dr. Osei Kofi Dankwa has said.

“A nation unable to join this new economic order, unable to harness the power of ICT, is effectively locked out of the new global economy and forced to remain a marginal player on the world economic stage.

“Today, we live in a global knowledge economy where knowledge, learning, and information communication technologies are the engines for social and economic development,” he added.

Dr. Dankwa was speaking at the 12th matriculation ceremony of the institute held at its main campus over the weekend at Tesano, Accra. In all 451 new students -- degree and diploma -- comprising 367 males and 84 females were matriculated.

He urged the matriculates to take upon themselves the responsibility to uphold the name of the institute in everything they do, both on and off campus, and through their own varied achievements bring honour and fame to the institute.

“You are here to add something important and valuable to your life; to become an engineer, an ICT guru, a business administrator, a professional, deserving of respect and the good life that comes with good work and its reward.

“If you take your studies seriously, this purpose will be realised: you will become the professional that you dream of,” he said.

He encouraged them to join the several clubs and associations on campus, because they are likely to learn the values of teamwork, leadership, preparation, management, and getting people with diverse views to work together for a common purpose.

Dr. Darkwa said nations that had achieved a new level of economic success have built their prosperity on certain foundations, such as the green revolution and the information revolution.

He explained that the green revolution led to sustained food surpluses and eliminated the threat of starvation, especially in Asia. “It raised farmers’ incomes and contributed to the decline of poverty.

“The revolution made is possible for people to have access to better nutrition and more balanced diets, and created greater employment opportunities for rural areas,” he said.

Registrar of GTUC, Professor Patrick Otoo Bobbie who administered the matriculation oath, said the ceremony was a unique opportunity for the students to define their lives, redefine it, and shape it to start their careers.

Professor Bobbie advised the matriculates to abide by the rules and regulations of the college and contribute their quota for the attainment of its mission, adding that they are going to enjoy seemingly unlimited freedom -- but urged them to use it wisely to become productive.