Accra, Oct 18, GNA - Professor Kingsley Larbi, Chief Executive Officer, Regent University College of Science and Technology, expressed surprise at how a continent which could boost of enormous human and material resources still wallowed in poverty. Speaking at the second graduation ceremony of the Ghana Telecom University College (GTUC) on the need for transformational leaders, he noted: "Africa is in desperate need of effective leaders that can lead her citizens to realize their full potential".

In all, 270 graduands were presented with certificate after six months of successful studies in information technology and information business outsourcing among others. Special awards were also presented to deserving students. Prof Larbi said self appointed "messiahs" on the political scene have made live miserable for most people adding, "but we can not speak of a better world or a better country without speaking of the critical role of leadership".

"As a pioneer myself, I have always admired visionary leaders, leaders who have dared to challenge the status quo. "We can change our situation and create a better world for our generation and generations to come, in spite of existing challenges". Prof Larbi charged the graduands to be innovative and contribute positively to the development of the country. "There is a promise to turn our country from subsistence economy into an industralized economy to help us take charge over our destinies. "For a meaningful change to take place, we need, clear sighted, effective leaders," he added. "Dear, graduands, your graduation today is the beginning of great things to come. Have big dreams for yourself, your nation and your continent, Prof Larbi said.

Dr Osei Darkwa, President of GTUC said the college would continue to build academic partnership with other higher institutions of learning to build capacity of its products. He called on the graduands to work hard on the job market to enable them to succeed, adding that "It takes hard work, determination, honesty, humility, faith and focus to succeed".