The Acting Registrar of the Health Facilities Regulatory Agency (HeFRA), Dr. Winfred Korletey Baah, has reaffirmed his commitment to empowering young people through career guidance, mentorship and scholarship support to help them make informed decisions about their future.

Dr. Baah made the commitment at the ninth edition of the Lower Manya Krobo Career Seminar held at the Zimmerman Presbyterian Church, Odumase, where students, Senior High School graduates and young adults were exposed to career pathways, tertiary education opportunities and practical industry insights.

The programme, which attracted students from Manya Krobo Senior High School, Akro Senior High Technical School and other institutions, brought together professionals from various fields to share their experiences and guide participants on academic and career development.

Addressing career and financial barriers

Dr. Baah said the seminar was created to address the challenges many young people face in choosing careers and accessing higher education.

According to him, while some students know what they want to become, many do not understand the steps required to achieve their ambitions. Others abandon their dreams because they believe financial limitations make tertiary education impossible.

"We bring accomplished professionals from different fields to explain career pathways, requirements and practical steps needed to succeed. We also educate them on scholarship opportunities because money should not be a barrier to education," he said.

Dr. Baah, who is also a consultant physician, said his personal experience as a scholarship beneficiary motivated him to help other young people access educational opportunities.

He disclosed that previous editions of the seminar have produced beneficiaries who are now medical doctors, nurses, lecturers, entrepreneurs and professionals working in Ghana and abroad.

"The impact is not only about the individuals. When one person succeeds through education, the benefits extend to families and communities," he added.

Students advised on technology and perseverance

Dr. Baah advised students to use social media and emerging technologies positively, encouraging them to leverage tools such as artificial intelligence to improve their studies and acquire useful skills.

He cautioned them against distractions and shortcuts to success, urging them to work hard, seek mentors and remain committed to their goals.

"There are no shortcuts in life. Learn hard, get guidance and do not allow failure or money to limit you," he advised.

Engineer Philip Padi inspires students

Principal Water Resources and Generation Planning Engineer at the Volta River Authority (VRA), Engineer Philip Padi, challenged students to deliberately plan their future and identify the steps needed to achieve their goals.

He encouraged them to understand their strengths, build relevant skills and explore opportunities in emerging areas such as artificial intelligence, robotics, engineering and digital technology.

Engineer Padi also warned students about the consequences of irresponsible social media use, reminding them that online activities can influence future academic and employment opportunities.

He urged them to develop themselves continuously, stressing that success comes from conscious choices, discipline and commitment.

Scholarship opportunities highlighted

Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at the Richard Novarti Hospital, Sogakope, Dr. Etornam Girenkyi, educated participants on scholarship opportunities available to students seeking tertiary education.

He explained scholarship requirements, application processes and ways to avoid fraudulent schemes, encouraging students to take advantage of legitimate opportunities.

Education Director commends initiative

In a speech read on his behalf, the Lower Manya Krobo Municipal Director of Education, Samuel Kwesi Tettey, commended Dr. Baah for the initiative, describing it as a valuable investment in the future of young people in the municipality.

He urged students to take advantage of the opportunity by engaging the resource persons, asking questions and gaining practical knowledge to guide their educational and career choices.

Tettey reminded participants that success does not happen by accident but requires careful planning, discipline, hard work and continuous learning.

He encouraged them to develop integrity, creativity, critical thinking and digital skills, stressing that Ghana needs young people who can become problem-solvers and contribute positively to national development.

Students inspired

Belinda Dega Eyram, a Form Two Home Economics student at Akro Senior High Technical School, said the seminar had changed her understanding of career planning.

She explained that although she wants to become a medical doctor, the programme helped her understand the steps and further education required to achieve that ambition.

She said the knowledge gained would influence her approach to learning.

"I will not only study to pass examinations. I will study with my future career in mind," she said.

Dr. Baah expressed optimism that the seminar would continue to inspire young people in Lower Manya Krobo to pursue education, develop their talents and become professionals who will contribute to their communities and the country.