Advancing innovation with global collaboration – TecFuPro Conference

As part of the increasing internationalisation Vaasa University of Applied Sciences organised an international conference in Ghana together with the University of Vaasa and Accra Technical University, Ghana in August 2024.

The second edition of TecFuPro Conference focused on global business collaboration, emerging technologies, career trends and educational partnerships. The conference, held in Accra, Ghana on 15-16 August, united global experts, academics and policymakers.

“Collaboration between VAMK and African universities through TecFuPro enhances VAMK’s global reputation, fosters research partnerships, and supports its sustainability goals. It also opens avenues to recruit talented students from Africa while enriching curricula with global insights”, says Kodjovi Lotchi, Senior Lecturer at Vaasa University of Applied Sciences,

Lotchi initiated the conference together with Emmanuel Ndzibah, University Lecturer and the Study Track Manager at the University of Vaasa.

“After the COVID-19 pandemic, when borders reopened for travel, I was inspired to develop a project to share knowledge and raise awareness about emerging technologies. This idea evolved into organising a conference that promotes collaboration and highlights the importance of technology trends for sustainable development and future careers. The first edition of the conference was successfully held in Lomé, Togo, in June 2022”, tells Lotchi.

The role of technology in the future

The 2024 conference opened with remarks from Professor Amevi Acakpovi, Rector of Accra Technical University, and a keynote address by Hon. Elizabeth Naa Kwatsoe Tawiah Sackey, Mayor of Accra, who underscored the transformative role of technology in governance.

A panel discussion, moderated Lotchi, featured Dean Raine Hermans from University of Vaasa and Dr. Ndzibah. In the interesting panel discussion Hermans highlighted the importance of aligning education with skills development and Ndzibah emphasised bridging the gap between digital tools and real-world challenges.

The next TecFuPro Conference will take place in Lomé, Togo, from June 11-13, 2025, at the University of Lomé. The theme for this year is Shaping the Future: “Inclusive Education and Innovation for All.