The lecture hall buzzed with anticipation as students from the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA) and Accra Technical University (ATU) gathered on May 15, 2025, not for a typical class, but for an invaluable encounter with professionals from Deloitte Ghana. The annual Deloitte Volunteer Day, an initiative deeply rooted in the firm’s commitment to impacting society beyond business operations, was in full swing. This year, the focus was clear: counselling and mentoring students to facilitate a seamless transition into the professional world. The Deloitte Volunteer Day event underscored Deloitte’s dedication to fostering the next generation of leaders through practical guidance and mentorship.

Deloitte’s Vision: Redefining Corporate Volunteerism in Africa

Deloitte’s mission extends beyond traditional business, aiming to redefine corporate volunteerism across Africa. At UPSA, Abena Biney, Chief Sustainability Officer, Deloitte West Africa and Audit Partner, articulated this commitment. “We are here to provide career guidance and counselling that will inform and advise you about the professions to choose whilst you prepare to journey into the corporate world,” Biney stated, assuring students of Deloitte’s unwavering support in their career choices.

Professor John Kwaku Mensah Mawutor, Vice Chancellor of UPSA, highlighted the uniqueness of Deloitte’s program in bridging the gap between academia and industry. He emphasized the core values of service, mentorship, and empowerment that underpin the initiative. “They help turn theory into vision- making a real impact on real lives… It is about service, it is about mentorship, it is about empowering,” Professor Mawutor noted, advising students to equip themselves with soft skills, critical thinking, and technological skills.

UPSA is committed to building stronger ties with Deloitte, anticipating that these interactions will evolve careers and transform challenges into opportunities.

Impacting Students: Deloitte at Accra Technical University (ATU)

Simultaneously, at Accra Technical University (ATU), Deloitte aimed to ignite a similar spark. George Ankomah, Lead Tax Partner, Deloitte Ghana, expressed the firm’s vision to impact students and make them “mirrors of possibility” for the next generation, offering real-world applications of their academic pursuits and career guidance. “We want to be part of your success story,” Ankomah affirmed.

Professor Amevi Acakpovi, representing ATU, admonished students to take their academic work seriously and to embrace innovation and professionalism. ATU is dedicated to developing strong linkages with industries and professional bodies to enhance the practical skills of its students.

ATU expressed its appreciation for Deloitte’s career guidance initiative and reiterated its vision to advance technical and professional knowledge, preparing students for the demands of the modern workforce.

Practical Insights from Deloitte Professionals

A key component of the Deloitte Volunteer Day was the breakout sessions. Deloitte professionals from various departments, including Audit and Assurance, Consulting, Risk Advisory, and Tax and Legal, shared their experiences and provided practical insights into the skills highly valued in the professional landscape. These sessions offered students a glimpse into the day-to-day realities of different roles and the competencies needed to succeed.

The Importance of Mentorship in Career Development

A highlight of the day was the panel discussion, which focused on the critical role of mentorship in career development. Deloitte professionals and lecturers from UPSA and ATU shared their experiences and insights into choosing the right career path and navigating the complexities of the professional world. The discussion underscored the importance of mentorship in shaping transformational leaders who are equipped to tackle future challenges.

The Deloitte Volunteer Day at UPSA and ATU served as a powerful testament to Deloitte’s commitment to corporate social responsibility and its dedication to developing future leaders. By providing practical guidance, mentorship, and real-world insights, Deloitte empowered students to approach their careers with confidence and a clear sense of purpose. The initiative highlighted the crucial role of mentorship and practical experience in complementing academic knowledge, preparing students to excel in the professional world. The Deloitte Volunteer Day is a model for how corporations can invest in the next generation, fostering talent and driving positive change in society.