Author name: Dr Maxwell Ampong

I. BRIEF OVERVIEW OF MICRO-CREDENTIALS In today’s fast-paced and ever-evolving job market, the demand for a skilled workforce has surged, paving the way for inventive educational solutions. One such innovation gaining traction is the world of micro-credentials: focused, bite-sized learning experiences that empower individuals with the relevant skills they need to excel in their careers. These ‘short courses’ are designed to provide targeted learning in a brief period, arming professionals with the practical know-how required to succeed in their respective fields. From a Ghanaian perspective, colloquially referred to as ‘short courses’, micro-credentials present a unique opportunity for professionals to stay ahead of the curve. This educational trend has emerged in response to the dynamic nature of the modern workforce, where the shelf life of skills is dwindling, and the need for continuous learning is imperative. As a result, Ghanaians quickly realise the immense value of these ‘short courses’, enabling many people to acquire new competencies, hone existing ones, and keep pace with the ever-changing demands of the job market. Micro-credentials play a significant role in addressing the skills gap and fostering a culture of lifelong learning, both essential for socio-economic development. By focusing on specific skill sets, these ‘short courses’ allow individuals to meet the precise requirements of employers, thereby increasing their employability and career prospects. Furthermore, micro-credentials offer a flexible learning experience, enabling working professionals to balance their education and busy lives. Recognising micro-credentials potential in shaping the future of education and workforce development, The League of Entrepreneurs, an initiative of Maxwell Investments Group, has launched a groundbreaking micro-credential initiative. Implementers of this programme are from K-AISWAM of the Centre for Capacity Building and Innovation under Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST). This programme offers diverse courses tailored to address the most pressing skill demands in various industries. From Procurement & Logistics Management to Business Analytics and Big Data, The League of Entrepreneurs is committed to providing affordable, accessible, and high-quality educational opportunities that cater to the unique needs of Ghanaian professionals. II. UNDERSTANDING MICRO-CREDENTIALS A. Definition and explanation of ‘short courses’ To truly appreciate the value and impact of micro-credentials in the Ghanaian context, it is essential to understand what these ‘short courses’ entail. Micro-credentials, commonly called ‘short courses’ in Ghana, are focused learning programmes that target specific skills or competencies. These courses typically require less time and less financial investment compared to traditional degrees. They are designed to equip learners with job-ready, practical knowledge. ‘Short courses’ can be offered by universities, training institutions, or even professional organisations, with the aim of providing a flexible and accessible learning experience for those looking to upskill, reskill, or simply broaden their knowledge base. B. Examples of short courses under the League of Entrepreneurs in Ghana Under this programme, various micro-credentials are available, covering a wide range of subject areas and industries. Some popular ones include: 1.         Procurement & Logistics Management 2.         Sales and Marketing Management 3.         Occupational Health & Safety 4.         Financial Reporting & Budgeting 5.         Finance for Non-Finance Managers 6.         Strategic Human Capital Management 7.         Public Relations and Corporate Communications 8.         Financial Analytics 9.         Business Analytics and Big Data 10.      Project Management 11.      Project Management (Professional) 12.      Risk Management 13.      Monitoring & Evaluation 14.      Time Management for Professionals 15.      Leadership and Adaptive Management 16.      Strategy Formulation & Management 17.      Public Health Promotion 18.      Decentralised Solid Waste Management 19.      Decentralised Liquid Waste Management 20.      Medical Waste Management 21.      Integrated Water Management 22.      Environmental Sanitation and Waste Financing 23.      Personal Branding & Marketing 24.      Change Management 25.      Emotional Intelligence 26.      Customer Relationship Management 27.      Strategic Quality Management 28.      Negotiation Skills 29.      Public Speaking & Presentation Skills 30.      Process Management These courses, among many others, enable professionals to hone their skills in specific areas, making them more competitive and well-rounded in the job market. The League of Entrepreneurs’ micro-credential programme offers two distinct options for participants: with-stay and without-stay, each presenting its own set of benefits. Courses are taken virtually or at the K-AISWAM state-of-the-art facility at Adjiringanor, East Legon, Accra. The without-stay option, which includes breakfast and lunch, is more cost-effective for local participants or those with their own accommodation and transportation arrangements. This option allows learners to focus on their education while still enjoying networking opportunities during meal breaks. On the other hand, the with-stay option offers an all-inclusive experience, encompassing breakfast, lunch, dinner, and hostel facilities. Participants who choose this option gain access to additional amenities such as a swimming pool, gym, game centre, and guest lounge, fostering a sense of camaraderie and community among fellow learners. This immersive environment not only enhances the overall learning experience but also creates opportunities for collaboration and long-lasting professional connections. C. Difference between micro-credentials and traditional degrees Micro-credentials and traditional degrees serve different purposes in the educational landscape. Here are some key differences between the two: III. THE LEAGUE OF ENTREPRENEURS’ MICRO-CREDENTIAL INITIATIVE A. The League, K-AISWAM and KNUST The League of Entrepreneurs, incorporated in 2017, is a duly registered company under the laws of Ghana and in good standing. The League has joined forces with K-AISWAM of the Centre for Capacity Building and Innovation under Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) to deliver an exceptional micro-credential programme. This partnership brings together the expertise of KNUST’s certified tutors and the passion of The League of Entrepreneurs to create a comprehensive and dynamic learning experience for Ghanaian students and professionals. B. Overview of course offerings and key benefits The League of Entrepreneurs’ micro-credential initiative boasts an impressive list of over 160 courses spanning various industries and disciplines. Key benefits of participating in this initiative include: These benefits, combined with the affordability and flexibility of the courses, make the initiative an attractive choice for professionals looking to advance their careers and contribute to Ghana’s socio-economic development. C. The impact of the Useful Affordable Education Drive The Useful Affordable Education Drive, spearheaded by The League of Entrepreneurs, is making significant strides in promoting accessible and affordable education in Ghana. This initiative empowers Ghanaians to acquire the skills they need to thrive in the modern workforce by offering a diverse range of micro-credentials. The Useful Affordable Education Drive is not only contributing to individual growth but is also

The Internet has undeniably changed how we live, work, and communicate. Since its inception, it has played a pivotal role in transforming lives and societies across the globe. From revolutionising access to information to connecting people worldwide, the Internet has broken down barriers and created once unimaginable opportunities. Its evolution from a static network to a dynamic hub of diverse content created by everyone has been astounding. In recent years, the rise of social media has become a particularly significant phenomenon. Boasting an impressive 4.7 billion users as of 2021, which accounts for 59% of the world’s population, social media has become an integral part of our lives and has an immense impact on businesses and individuals. Initially, the Internet was primarily a static network where users could access information but had limited means to contribute or interact with the content. However, as the technology evolved and became more accessible, users began to create and share their content, giving rise to a more interactive and collaborative space. This shift has been most evident in the emergence and growth of social media platforms. Social media platforms have gained traction at an exponential rate, offering a space for users to connect, share ideas, and communicate with others from all corners of the world. The statistics are staggering, with billions of users engaging on various platforms daily. This unprecedented level of connectivity has led to a profound impact on how we live, work, and even perceive the world around us. The widespread adoption of social media has transformed how businesses and individuals interact, opening doors for new opportunities, marketing strategies, and revenue streams. As a result, companies are increasingly leveraging social media platforms to reach, engage, and retain their target audience. Simultaneously, individuals use these platforms for personal growth, networking, and connecting with friends and family. However, the rise of social media usage also comes with its own set of challenges and concerns. Privacy, fake news, and cyberbullying have become more prevalent, demanding greater attention from governments, businesses, and users. The Internet’s journey from a static network to a dynamic hub of diverse content, powered by the rise of social media usage, has indelibly changed our lives and societies. As we embrace the possibilities and face the challenges of this digital landscape, it is crucial to remain vigilant and informed about the potential impacts and opportunities. I. THE EMERGENCE OF SOCIAL MEDIA The rapid rise of social media has been nothing short of a global phenomenon, with individuals and businesses embracing its numerous benefits and applications. As a result, social media has become an integral aspect of our digital lives by allowing users to create, share, and exchange information, ideas, and thoughts through online communities and networks. A. Definition and Purpose Social media is a computer-based technology that facilitates sharing ideas, thoughts, and information by creating virtual networks and communities. By design, social media platforms are interactive and user-driven, allowing people to engage with others, share their experiences, and express themselves in various ways. The ultimate purpose of social media is to connect people, foster relationships, and facilitate communication between individuals, groups, and organisations. B. User Demographics Social media platforms tend to attract diverse users, with some platforms skewing towards specific demographics. Social media users generally tend to be younger, better educated, and relatively wealthy compared to the broader population. This is particularly true for platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok, which have a younger user base. However, as social media continues to grow and evolve, it is increasingly being adopted by older age groups and users with varying socioeconomic backgrounds. C. The Growth of Social Media Platforms The growth of social media platforms has been exponential, with over 128 sites in existence today. Among these platforms, Facebook remains the largest and most influential, boasting over 2.8 billion monthly active users as of 2021. Other major platforms include Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, Pinterest, and Snapchat, each with unique features and a user base. The rapid expansion of social media has been fuelled by advancements in technology, particularly the proliferation of smartphones and mobile internet access. As a result, social media has become more accessible, allowing users to connect and engage with others anytime, anywhere. Social media’s emergence has profoundly impacted various aspects of our lives, from personal relationships to business practices. It has revolutionised how we communicate, access information, and share experiences, ultimately transforming how we interact with the world around us. As social media continues to evolve and grow, it will undoubtedly continue to shape our societies and businesses in new and exciting ways. II. SOCIAL MEDIA IN GHANA In recent years, Ghana has witnessed significant growth in social media usage, with the number of users reaching an impressive 8.8 million. This surge in social media adoption has changed how Ghanaians communicate and interact with one another and has created many opportunities for businesses and the broader economy. A. The Rise of Social Media Users in Ghana The number of social media users in Ghana has grown exponentially, reaching 8.8 million people as of 2021. This increase in adoption can be attributed to the rapid expansion of mobile phone usage and affordable internet access, which have made social media platforms more accessible to a larger population. As a result, social media has become an integral part of daily life for many Ghanaians, who use these platforms to connect with friends and family, share experiences, and access information. B. WhatsApp: The Most Widely Subscribed Social App in Ghana Among the numerous social media platforms available, WhatsApp has emerged as the most widely subscribed app in Ghana. With its user-friendly interface, free messaging and calling features, and end-to-end encryption, WhatsApp has become the go-to app for Ghanaians to communicate with friends, family, and business contacts. In addition to its popularity for personal use, WhatsApp has also been embraced by Ghanaian businesses as a powerful marketing and communication tool. Businesses leverage the app to connect with customers, share updates and promotions, and provide customer support,

From the earliest days of human civilization, our understanding of value has shaped how we interact with the world. The concept of assets — items or resources that hold intrinsic or perceived worth — has undergone countless transformations as societies and economies evolved. Today, we live in a world where assets can take myriad forms, from tangible objects like real estate and precious metals to intangible creations like intellectual property and digital currencies.  In this fascinating journey through the history of assets, we’ll explore how our perception of value has changed over time and why understanding this evolution is crucial to making informed decisions in today’s rapidly shifting landscape. This article delves into the captivating world of assets and their ever-changing nature! 1. THE ORIGINS OF ASSETS Imagine a world without money, where goods and services are exchanged directly based on mutual need and agreement. This was the reality in early human societies, where bartering laid the foundation for the concept of assets. In this rudimentary system, people traded items like livestock, grains, and tools, assigning value to these tangible goods based on their immediate utility and scarcity. 1.1 Bartering The practice of bartering dates back thousands of years, with evidence of its use found in ancient cultures across the globe. This system allowed individuals to exchange goods and services based on their unique skills and resources, fostering cooperation and trade within communities. However, bartering had its limitations.  For one, it relied on the coincidence of wants: both parties had to possess something the other desired. This challenge and the difficulty of establishing a universally accepted measure of value paved the way for a more efficient and standardized exchange system. 1.2 The Emergence of Currency Around 5,000 years ago, we saw the birth of currency, a groundbreaking innovation that revolutionized how humans perceived value. Early forms of currency, such as metal coins and shells, provided a standardized measure of value that facilitated trade on a larger scale. These currencies were portable, divisible, and widely accepted, making it easier for people to conduct transactions and accumulate wealth. As societies grew more complex and interconnected, the evolution of currency accelerated, eventually leading to the development of modern financial systems. The emergence of currency expanded the realm of assets beyond tangible goods and laid the groundwork for the sophisticated array of assets we recognize today. 2. PRECIOUS METALS AS ASSETS As our ancestors sought stable and universally recognized forms of value, they turned to a group of shiny, malleable materials that have captivated humans for millennia: precious metals. Gold and silver emerged as the leading contenders in this category, transforming our understanding of assets and laying the foundation for wealth accumulation. 2.1 Gold and Silver The allure of gold and silver transcended cultural and geographical boundaries, with civilizations like the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans all recognizing their worth. These precious metals were rare, durable, and difficult to counterfeit, making them an ideal store of value.  As societies progressed, gold and silver began to be minted into coins, solidifying their status as primary forms of currency. In addition to their monetary uses, these metals held cultural and artistic significance, with countless artefacts and jewellery crafted to symbolize wealth, power, and status. 2.2 The Gold Standard The power of gold reached its zenith with the introduction of the gold standard in the 19th century. Under this system, countries pegged their currency to a fixed amount of gold, ensuring stability and trust in the global financial system. The gold standard played a crucial role in shaping modern economies, as it established a universal benchmark for value and facilitated international trade.  However, the rigidity of the gold standard eventually proved unsustainable, leading to its collapse in the 20th century. Despite this, gold and silver have maintained their status as timeless and treasured assets, demonstrating the resilience of precious metals in an ever-evolving world of value. 3. THE RISE OF TANGIBLE ASSETS As societies continued to grow and flourish, the concept of assets expanded beyond the realm of currency and precious metals. The emergence of tangible assets like real estate, art, and collectibles added new dimensions to our understanding of value, creating opportunities for individuals to invest and accumulate wealth in diverse ways. 3.1 Real Estate Real estate has been a cornerstone of wealth and social status throughout history, with land ownership often symbolizing power, prestige, and stability. From the sprawling estates of ancient Roman nobles to the opulent mansions of the Gilded Age, owning property has long been a mark of success and affluence.  However, real estate’s enduring appeal lies in its intrinsic value; as a finite resource, the land becomes more valuable as populations grow and demand for space increases. As a result, investing in real estate has become a popular strategy for wealth preservation and growth, offering both financial returns and a tangible sense of ownership. 3.2 Art and Collectibles The world of art and collectibles has also shaped our perception of assets, with paintings, sculptures, and other rare items capturing the imagination of collectors and investors alike. Art has served as a symbol of culture, power, and refinement throughout history, with masterpieces by renowned artists fetching astronomical prices at auction. Similarly, collectibles such as vintage cars, stamps, and coins have attracted enthusiasts who recognize their unique histories and potential for appreciation. While the value of art and collectibles can be subjective, these tangible assets offer a fascinating glimpse into the diverse ways humans assign worth and find meaning in the objects around them. 4. FINANCIAL ASSETS: STOCKS AND BONDS As the global economy became more sophisticated and interconnected, a new class of assets emerged to address the growing complexity of trade and investment: financial assets. Stocks and bonds, the bedrock of modern financial markets, transformed how we perceive and interact with value, enabling individuals and institutions to participate in the growth and success of businesses and governments. 4.1 The Birth of Stock Exchanges The story of stocks as financial assets date back to the