ISSER hosts alumni–faculty forum to strengthen graduate engagement

Prof. Charles Ackah delivers opening remarks at the alumni-faculty networking forum.

ISSER hosted an alumni-faculty networking forum to rekindle connections with its graduates and advance efforts towards establishing a structured alumni network. The forum was led by senior ISSER faculty -- including Director Prof. Robert Darko Osei, Prof. Charles Ackah, Prof. Simon Bawakyillenuo, and Dr. Cynthia Addoquaye Tagoe -- and provided a platform for alumni and faculty to co-create strategies for sustained, mutually beneficial engagement.

In his opening remarks, Prof. Charles Ackah emphasised the importance of lifelong ties with ISSER and highlighted the Institute’s renewed focus on alumni engagement under its current leadership. He underscored the role of alumni as ambassadors of ISSER’s values and as partners in advancing its academic and policy mission.

Prof. Simon Bawakyillenuo reflected on his involvement in various alumni-led initiatives, highlighting how he has supported these efforts by contributing his expertise and leveraging his professional networks. His intervention illustrated the value of active alumni participation and demonstrated how strong alumni–faculty collaboration can translate into tangible benefits for both graduates and the Institute.

Alumni also reflected on their ISSER experience and post-graduation journeys, identifying practical ways to give back to the Institute whilst supporting current students. Dr. Cynthia Addoquaye Tagoe led a lively and productive session, drawing contributions from faculty and alumni on collaboration opportunities, including mentorship, guest lectures, joint research, and policy-focused initiatives.

"ISSER's rigorous training equips graduates to give back meaningfully, and this renewed focus on alumni relations will unlock significant benefits for the Institute and its students,” said alumnus Dr. Clement Adamba.

ISSER Director Prof. Robert Darko Osei reaffirmed ISSER's commitment to strengthening alumni engagement, noting "Our alumni embody ISSER's vision and mission. Strengthening these ties enhances our teaching, research, and policy engagement whilst enabling alumni to shape the next generation."

The forum, held on 29 October 2024 on the sidelines of the launch of the 2024 State of the Ghanaian Economy Report (SGER 2024), concluded with proposals to guide the development of a vibrant and mutually beneficial ISSER–alumni exchange.