Here is Anthony's story:
My name is Anthony Kobina Ampong, an Assistant Programme Officer from the Ministry of Employment and Labour Relations. I am from Ghana, West Africa, and born into a family of three. I started my primary education at Fanti Mines Junior High School located in a gold mining community in the Western part of Ghana. I furthered on to complete my Senior High School certification at Cape Coast, where I studied General Art which introduced me to various rich African histories.
The Ministry of Employment and Labour Relations was established by an Act of parliament and is mandated to formulate policies on labour and employment issues, develop sector plans, coordinate employment and labour-related interventions across sectors, promote harmonious labour relations and workplace safety, monitor, and evaluate policies, programmes/projects for accelerated employment creation for national development. The Ministry of Employment Labour and Relations vision is to create a decent job for all workers in Ghana and Ghanaians working abroad.
As an Assistant Programme Officer, my role is to provide frontline operational support for the implementation of programmes and projects in a designated area of work. My specific duties are as follows;
- Collect and collate basic data
- Compile information for research, programmes, projects, monitoring and evaluation
- Draft simple reports
- Undertake preliminary investigations
After completing ABE in 2018 at Pentecost University, Accra- Ghana, I was placed in the Account unit at the Ministry of Employment and Labour Relations, Accra to engage in a mandatory one-year National Service. Through hard work and good analytical skills that I learned during my studies, I had an extension to serve the ministry for one additional year. Afterwards, I was permanently placed and posted to the Planning, Policy, Monitoring, and Evaluation department.
After completing Senior High School in 2013, I discussed my future aspirations with a Human Resource Professional who introduced ABE to me and then I did my personal research on the program. I applied and gained admission to Pentecost University, Accra to study ABE Business Management with Human Resource. Studying ABE has developed my analytical skills which has helped me in my career and further studies. Studying ABE introduced me to global business concepts and shaped my thinking and approach to solving business problems. I was able to gain sponsorship to pursue my MBA based on my ABE qualification.
What I enjoy most about my current job:
1. Making a Positive Impact: Many individuals working in government roles, such as the Ministry of Employment and Labour Relations, find satisfaction in knowing that their work contributes to improving the lives of citizens. This might involve implementing policies and programs that help create jobs, protect workers' rights, or address labour-related issues.
2. Variety of Tasks: Government roles often involve diverse tasks and responsibilities, which can keep the job interesting and engaging. These tasks may include policy research, program development, stakeholder engagement, data analysis, and more.
3. Learning and Growth: Government roles typically provide opportunities for learning and professional development. Staying updated on labour market trends, employment policies, and legal frameworks can be intellectually stimulating.
4. Helping Vulnerable Populations: In roles related to labour and employment, there may be a sense of fulfilment in assisting vulnerable populations, such as low-income workers or individuals facing workplace discrimination. Advocating for workers' rights can be rewarding.
5. Policy Impact: Seeing the tangible impact of policies and programs that you have helped develop or implement can be gratifying. When these policies result in job creation, improved working conditions, or reduced unemployment rates, it can be a source of pride.
6. Problem Solving: Many roles in labour and employment ministries involve problem-solving. Identifying challenges in the labour market and finding effective solutions can be intellectually stimulating.
The qualifications provided by ABE are recognised and respected internationally, making them a valuable option for individuals seeking to develop their business acumen and advance their careers in the business and management sectors. ABE's focus on practical skills and real-world applications often aligns well with the needs of students and professionals looking to gain relevant expertise in the business world.
As an ABE alumnus, my advice for someone starting out on ABE studies is that it’s an exciting and rewarding journey in the field of business and management. Here are some valuable tips to help you succeed in your studies:
Set Clear Goals: Define your academic and career goals. Knowing what you want to achieve with your ABE qualification will help you stay motivated and focused throughout your studies.
Create a Study Plan: Develop a study schedule that fits your lifestyle and commitments. Consistency in your study routine is key to staying on track.
Understand the Syllabus: Familiarise yourself with the ABE syllabus and the specific requirements for your chosen qualification. This will help you know what topics to focus on and the assessments you'll need to complete.
Stay Organised: Keep track of deadlines, assignments, and exam dates. Use calendars, planners, or digital tools to help you stay organised.
Use Available Resources: ABE provides study materials and resources to support your learning. Make full use of textbooks, study guides, and online resources to enhance your understanding of the subject matter.
Seek Clarification: Don't hesitate to reach out to your instructors or tutors if you have questions or need clarification on any topic. ABE often has a network of accredited centres that offer support to students.
Practice Regularly: Business and management subjects often require practical application. Practice problem-solving, case studies, and real-world scenarios to reinforce your understanding.
Stay Updated: The business world is dynamic. Stay current with industry trends, news, and developments related to your field of study.
Practice Time Management: Balance your study time with other commitments, work, and personal life. Effective time management will help reduce stress and ensure you maintain a healthy work-life-study balance.
Practice Exam Techniques: Familiarise yourself with the format and style of ABE exams. Practice past papers and mock exams to improve your exam technique and time management during assessments.
Seek Support: If you encounter challenges or feel overwhelmed, don't hesitate to seek support from friends, family, or counsellors. Sometimes, discussing your concerns can lead to valuable insights and solutions.