Mr. Augustus Kwaku Awity, the outgone Chief Director, Volta Regional Coordinating Council (VRCC), has urged salaried workers to acquire skills that will ensure their survival in the event of job loss.
Speaking at a send-off ceremony in his honour, he emphasised the importance of being proactive and prepared for the future, saying it was important to acquire a skill even while in employment for the uncertainties of life and career.
“When I sat on panels for promotion interviews, I always asked people what skills they acquired. This is the bane of many of us workers – no skill acquisition. Prepare for the world of unemployment. Don’t just pass through the system, acquire a skill to be able to survive when the system kicks you out.”
Mr. Awity advised the gathering, saying, while money could facilitate transactions and access to resources, it was important to just see it as a medium of exchange and that they could do anything even without it.
Mr. Awity who received various accolades on the day for his able stewardship, admitted he accomplished all he did through the collaborative effort of the VRCC staff, saying what worked for him was putting together a team.
“Leadership comes with humility, hard work and/or smart work. Leaders fail because of those they surround themselves with. It is important to surround yourself with ambitious people and those who can tell the truth to your face.”
He stressed the need for people to have integrity, saying Mr. James Gunu and Dr Archibald Letsa, the current and the immediate past Volta Regional Minister respectively under whom he served “never rejected my advice.”
Mr. Gunu, the Regional Minister, paid a glowing tribute to the former VRCC Chief Director, saying he had always been on point and never disappointed with any assignment given him.
He expressed willingness to continue working with him saying, “Though you’re going on retirement, you’ve become my consultant.”
The Thursday evening event, which had patrons, including regional security chiefs, heads of departments and the new Chief Director, VRCC treated thrilling live band music also saw citations presented to Mr. Awity for his stewardship.
“This citation is in recognition of your unwavering dedication, outstanding leadership, and profound commitment to championing the implementation of the UNFPA Essential Services Package for survivors of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence programme in the Volta Region from 2023 to date.
“… Your tireless efforts, fostered institutional collaboration, ensuring expedited service provision that upholds the dignity, protection and empowerment of survivors. For your invaluable contributions to building a safer, more inclusive and equitable Volta Region,” read the citation presented by the Department of Gender, Volta Region, led by Madam Thywill Kpe.
Another signed by Mr. Gunu, the Regional Minister and Chairman, Regional Security Council (REGSEC) read in part, “With deep admiration and heartfelt gratitude, we celebrate your exceptional leadership, unwavering dedication and profound impact during your time as Chief Director of the VRCC and Secretary to REGSEC…
“Beyond your official capabilities, your compassion, humility, respect, relationship, and commitment to humanity have served as a beacon of hope and inspiration. You have not only led but also listened, forging meaningful connections and nurturing an environment where all voices are valued.”
