INTRODUCTION

The number of graduates produced by tertiary institutions in Ghana far outweighs the of vacancies created at the end of every year. The few job openings usually state very stringent and rigorous qualification criteria that render many graduates unqualified. These new vacancies usually require that applicants possess minimum of two to five year’s working experience in the field of application. How does a graduate acquire some form of work experience right after school? To answer this question, we will dive a little deeper into how internships shape the carrier path of graduates and increases their chance of gaining employment in industry.

Are internships worth doing? What can they add to a students’ education and overall wellbeing and growth? To answer these vital questions and many more, this article takes a panoramic look at published work on academic internships and the national service program (NSP) in the case of Ghana. This article, we will examine the internship landscape in Ghana, highlighting opportunities for both undergraduate and graduate students, as well as the national service program.

Internships, as part of curriculum of many higher institutions aim at helping the students to gain practical knowledge of things they have been taught in school.

In Ghana, internships have become an integral part of the higher education system. Teachers may call it “Teaching practice”, nurses may call theirs “Clinicals”, while other higher institutions may refer to their as “industrial attachment” or simply “internship”.

Internships do not only provide students and graduates with valuable exposure to the professional world but also equip them with essential skills to enhance their employability.

Undergraduate Internships:

For undergraduate students in Ghana, internships are often a mandatory component of their degree courses or programs and hence graded for it. Most universities require students, typically in their third year, to complete an industrial attachment or internship related to their field of study. This hands-on experience allows students to apply theoretical knowledge gained in the classroom to real-world experiences. The range of industries offering internships is vast, including sectors such as accounting, banking, engineering, computer science, agriculture, health sciences, hospitality management and more.

Major companies across various industries actively participate in providing internship opportunities. Banks like Standard Charted, Fidelity, agricultural companies such as Yara Ghana, FMGG companies like Unilever Ghana, telecoms like Telecel Ghana, solar companies such as AB Solar International, Infra Futura, Tino Solutions, Dutch&Co, DENG Solar company, Emmztech Solutions, Worldtech consult, etc… and mining companies like AngloGold Ashanti are among the prominent organizations that offer internships to undergraduate students. Additionally, the National Service Secretariat plays a role in placing students in internship roles after they complete their university education. Furthermore, NGOs and international organizations based in Ghana often provide internship opportunities periodically.

Graduate Internships:

Whereas undergraduate internships are more structured and integrated into academic programs, graduate internships in Ghana are less formalized but equally valuable. These internships are designed to provide fresh graduates with work experience before securing full-time employment. Graduate internships are typically offered for a duration of 3 to 12 months, depending on the organization and the nature of the role.

Major banks, accounting and consulting firms such as PwC Ghana and KPMG Ghana are known to offer graduate internship programs. These internships provide exposure to the professional services industry and allow graduates to enhance their skills in areas such as financial analysis, auditing, and consulting. Additionally, many multinational companies and NGOs/development agencies based in Ghana recruit graduate interns periodically, offering opportunities across various sectors.

Application processes for graduate internships vary, but typically involve monitoring internship opportunities advertised by companies of interest and applying online when positions become available. Submitting an updated resume and a compelling cover letter highlighting relevant skills and experiences is crucial for standing out among the applicant pool.

The National Service Program:

In addition to internships, Ghana’s National Service program plays a vital role in providing graduates with practical work experience. This program, mandatory for all tertiary graduates in Ghana, requires them to serve the nation for a period of one year in various sectors, including education, health, and other government agencies.

The National Service program serves multiple purposes. Firstly, it aims to inculcate a sense of patriotism and national consciousness among graduates, encouraging them to contribute to the development of their communities and the nation as a whole. Secondly, it provides graduates with valuable work experience, enabling them to apply the knowledge and skills acquired during their academic pursuits. This practical exposure not only enhances their employability but also helps them to develop essential soft skills such as teamwork, communication, and problem-solving abilities.

Participating in the National Service program is a prerequisite for graduates seeking employment in the public sector or pursuing further studies in Ghana. Moreover, many private sector organizations also consider National Service experience as a valuable asset when evaluating job applicants.

How a Private Solar Companies Can Enroll onto the National Service Program:

Note that engaging young and energetic graduates and students onto the national service program does not benefit only the graduate but serves as a cheap labour force for the company within the stipulated period. During this period, the candidate is put on a general government-determined minimum allowance. This is a good opportunity for start ups to engage graduates in building their business while impacting knowledge and skill.

To enroll your start up company onto the national service program, write to the national service secretariate office to have your registered company or enterprise on-boarded on to the platform.

In conclusion, undergraduate and graduate internships, and the National Service program, offer valuable opportunities for students and graduates in Ghana to gain practical experience, develop essential skills, and enhance their employability. By actively seeking and securing internships and fulfilling the National Service requirement, individuals can bridge the gap between academic learning and the professional world, positioning themselves for successful careers in their chosen fields.