Kumasi: Dr Edwin Provencal, the Managing Director of the Bulk Oil Storage and Transportation Company (BOST), has called for stronger collaboration between academia and industry to equip the youth with essential soft skills necessary for societal transformation. During the recently concluded 13th Biennial Congress of the KNUST Alumni Association, Dr Provencal emphasized the need for creating pathways that enable the youth to harness their potential and navigate the evolving global oil and gas landscape, ensuring they are prepared for industry demands. According to Ghana News Agency, Dr Nathan Amanquah, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Computer Science at Ashesi University, contributed to a panel discussion by advocating for the development of curricula aimed at fostering innovation. He stressed the importance of academia and industry working closely to design programs that instill an innovative mindset in students, enhancing their contributions to the oil and gas sector. Daasebre Nana Kwaku Boateng III , Omanhene of the New Juaben Traditional Area, praised the KNUST Alumni Association's leadership for their youth-focused initiatives and encouraged further efforts. The congress, which attracted alumni from across the country and international delegates, featured a Youth Day with activities such as a Curriculum Vitae Clinic, networking skills sessions, one-on-one mentorship, and a job fair, all designed to prepare graduates for the job market and professional growth. The event also recognized Osabarima Ansah Sasraku III, Mamfehene and Kyidomhene of the Akuapem Traditional Area, as Alumnus of the Year for his contributions to the Alumni Association. In his address, Osabarima Ansah Sasraku urged the alumni community to actively create internships and mentorship opportunities and collaborate with KNUST to make curricula more relevant to industry needs. He also encouraged the integration of soft skills, entrepreneurship training, and technology use in university programs while advising students and young graduat es to engage in volunteering to build their skills and seize mentorship and networking opportunities.