GLaDNet Launched to Drive Workforce Productivity Through Development
By: Solomon Nartey Tetteh
The Ghana Learning and Development Network (GLaDNet) was officially launched on March 18, 2026, with the aim of driving workforce productivity through learning and development.
Speaking at the official launch of GLaDNet, the President of the Ghana Learning and Development Network (GLaDNet), Kwesi Hegan, described the initiative as a significant step towards strengthening collaboration among learning and development (L&D) professionals across Ghana.
He called for a transformation in how organisations approach training, stressing that learning must translate into measurable performance and productivity.
Mr. Hegan noted that the network aims to bring together trainers, facilitators, coaches, consultants and organisational development specialists to enhance human capital development and contribute to national growth.
“Learning must not simply produce knowledge; it must produce capability,” he emphasised.
According to him, while many organisations invest heavily in training programmes, the impact is often limited because learning does not translate into improved workplace performance.
Mr. Hegan pointed out that L&D professionals are often perceived as cost centres rather than strategic partners, a perception he believes must change if organisations are to achieve sustainable growth.
He stressed that effective learning goes beyond traditional lecture-based approaches and PowerPoint presentations, advocating for more practical, participatory and experiential methods.
“People learn best by doing. Training must be hands-on, participative and focused on real-world application,” he said.
The GLaDNet President explained that the network will serve as a platform for professionals to share knowledge, exchange best practices and adopt innovative learning methodologies through workshops, webinars and conferences.
He added that no single institution holds all the answers, underscoring the importance of collaboration in advancing the L&D profession.
“When learning professionals connect and share capabilities, we can make a significant impact on organisations and national development,” he stated.
Mr. Hegan further highlighted that a nation’s progress is closely tied to the skills and capabilities of its workforce, stressing that continuous learning is key to innovation, leadership and economic development.
Moreover, the Executive Director of the Ghana Learning and Development Network (GLaDNet), Mrs. Akosua Kyerewaa Boateng, also underscored the urgent need for learning and development programmes in Ghana to move beyond theory and deliver measurable impact in the workplace.
Mrs. Boateng said the formation of the network was driven by a critical question confronting many professionals in the sector: Is training truly improving performance at work?
According to her, despite significant investments by organisations in workshops, seminars and training programmes, the expected transformation in employee performance often remains limited.
“People leave training sessions motivated and inspired, but after some time, things often return to normal. The expected changes don’t fully happen,” she noted.
She explained that this persistent gap between learning and real workplace application sparked deeper conversations among learning and development professionals across the country.
she stressed that learning should not end in the classroom but must translate into improved performance, productivity and decision-making in organisations.
Mrs. Boateng also called for a shift away from traditional lecture-based methods towards more interactive and practical approaches that actively engage participants.
