Kumasi Technical University's Graduate School hosted a highly informative postgraduate seminar on Saturday, June 24th, 2023. The seminar aimed to equip postgraduate students with essential research skills and maximize their utilization of academic library resources. The event commenced with a warm welcome address by Prof. Roland Kabange, the Dean of the Graduate School.
Prof. Kabange expressed his gratitude to the attendees on behalf of the Graduate School management team, highlighting the remarkable progress achieved in the overall development of postgraduate students. He emphasized the Graduate School's commitment to ensuring that KsTU's postgraduates are equipped with the necessary research skills to independently conduct studies critical to Ghana's socio-economic advancement.
Under the theme, "Maximizing the Use of Academic Library Resources for Postgraduate Research," the seminar focused on empowering students with effective strategies for leveraging the extensive resources available in the university's academic library. The facilitators, experts in their respective fields, delivered engaging presentations on key topics.
Dr. K. Osei Kuffour Adjei, the university librarian, presented on the topic of "Plagiarism and How to Avoid It." His session provided students with valuable insights into maintaining academic integrity during their research work. Dr. Adjei emphasized the importance of proper citation, referencing techniques, and the ethical implications of plagiarism. The students gained a clear understanding of the guidelines for using external sources appropriately, ensuring the credibility and originality of their research.
Mr. Samuel Ossom, another facilitator, shared his expertise on "Electronic Resources and Turnitin." He introduced students to the vast array of digital resources available through the university's library system. Mr. Ossom demonstrated how these resources can be effectively accessed and utilized to enhance research outcomes. He also provided an in-depth overview of Turnitin, a widely used plagiarism detection tool, and explained how it can assist students in ensuring the authenticity of their work.
Mr. Michael Oppong, representing the library's academic support services, conducted a session on the various support services available to postgraduate students. He highlighted the extensive range of assistance provided by the library, including research consultations, guidance on literature search techniques, and access to specialized databases. Mr. Oppong emphasized the importance of taking advantage of these services to enhance research efficiency and quality.
The seminar was characterized by active participation and engagement from the students. Interactive discussions and question-and-answer sessions provided a platform for students to clarify their doubts and seek further insights from the facilitators. The collaborative atmosphere fostered an enriching learning experience for all attendees.
The Graduate School's initiative to organize regular seminars reflects its commitment to supporting students as they transition into the professional world. By assembling knowledgeable experts and offering valuable presentations on relevant topics, the Graduate School equips students with the necessary skills and resources to excel in their postgraduate research endeavors.
Kumasi Technical University continues to prioritize research excellence and academic growth, and events like this seminar serve as significant milestones in nurturing a vibrant and intellectually stimulating environment for postgraduate students. Through such initiatives, the university empowers its students to contribute effectively to the advancement of knowledge and the socio-economic development of Ghana.