KOFORIDUA TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY

FACULTY OF APPLIED SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

DEPARTMENT OF COMPUTER SCIENCE

A REPORT ON AN INDUSTRIAL ATTACHMENT AT KOFORIDUA TECHNICAL

UNIVERSITY (KTU) - ICT DIRECTORATE

JOSEPH MIGBODZI

B207230014

JANUARY 2025
 CHAPTER ONE

1.0 INTRODUCTION

Industrial attachment is a crucial aspect of the BSc. Business Information Systems (BIS) program,

designed to provide students with practical exposure to the professional environment. It bridges the

gap between theoretical knowledge acquired in the classroom and its application in real-world settings.

By engaging in industrial attachment, students gain hands-on experience, develop technical skills, and

enhance their understanding of industry standards and practices. The Koforidua Technical University

(KTU) ICT Directorate served as the host organization for my attachment. Koforidua Technical

University is located in Adweso, adjacent to New Juaben Secondary School in the Eastern Region of

Ghana. My attachment period spanned from 16th September to 8th November, during which I was

actively involved in various technical and practical tasks, gaining invaluable experience in the ICT

field. This eight-week internship provided a practical platform to apply the knowledge and skills

acquired during my studies to real-life ICT operations.

Koforidua Technical University is an outstanding public tertiary institution in the Eastern Region and

one of the fastest-growing Technical Universities in Ghana with immense prospects. Koforidua

Technical University over the years has produced high-level career-focused and skilled manpower to

support the country’s industrial growth. The University was established as a Polytechnic in 1997 in the

Eastern Region of Ghana. Its status changed to a Technical University on 1st September 2016 in

compliance with the Technical University Act 2016, (Act 922). The ICT Directorate of the University

was established in 2010 by the University council to build and improve a sustainable ICT

infrastructure to support teaching, learning, and research in achieving the University’s vision of

producing high-level, career-focused, and skilled manpower to support the country’s industrial growth.

The ICT Directorate has five (5) Sections/Units namely; Hardware Repairs and Maintenance, MIS
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and Support Services, Web and Application Development, Networking and Communication, and

Multimedia Services. KTU is one of the leading technical universities in Ghana, known for its

commitment to practical and technical education. The ICT Directorate is a key department responsible

for managing the university's technological infrastructure, including servers, networks, and IT systems.

The primary objective of the industrial attachment was to expose me to ICT operations, system

security updates, server management, and network infrastructure installation and configuration. These

tasks aligned closely with the core competencies of the BSc. BIS program, particularly in areas such as

system administration, network management, and IT project implementation. This report outlines my

experiences, tasks undertaken, challenges faced, and the valuable lessons learned during my

attachment. It also highlights the contribution of the attachment to my academic and career aspirations.

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1.1 MISSION

To provide tertiary-level technical education through the development of carrier-focused skills in

collaboration with industry.

1.2 VISION

To be a Reference Point for World-Class Science and Technology Education and Applied Research.

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 CHAPTER TW0

2.0 JOBS ASSIGNED AND ACTIVITIES PERFORMED

Week 1:CAT-6 Cable Stripping and Termination

 Stripped Ethernet cables and arranged wires according to standard color codes.

 Terminated and tested cables for network connectivity.

I was assigned to strip Ethernet cables and arrange the wires according to standard color codes. I also

terminated and tested the cables to ensure proper network connectivity. These tasks were repetitive

throughout the week, allowing me to become familiar with the standard procedures and perform them

efficiently.

Week 2: System Security Updates

 Updated security systems on available thin client computers to enhance their protection.

I was tasked with updating security systems on the available thin client computers to enhance their

protection. Additionally, I verified and documented the update status of the systems. This task was

repeated on several systems during the week, helping me gain confidence and expertise in handling

system updates.

Week 3: System Testing and Deployment

 Created user accounts on computers in a virtual environment to enable accessibility.

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 Installed a server and a network switch into a rack, ensuring proper cable management.

I was responsible for creating user accounts on computers in a virtual environment to enable

accessibility. I also installed a server and a network switch into a rack, ensuring proper cable

management and functionality. These tasks were performed multiple times during the week,

reinforcing my understanding of deployment processes in virtual and physical environments.

Week 4: Network Configuration and Monitoring

 Tested internet speed and connectivity across the network.

 Performed system updates on all computers in the e-library, focusing on security patches.

I was assigned to test internet speed and connectivity across the network. I also performed system

updates on all computers in the e-library, focusing on installing the latest security patches. The

repetitive nature of these tasks helped me understand network configurations and ensure consistent

performance.

Week 5: Computer Setup and Network Testing

 Connected hardware devices, including Ethernet cables, to set up computers.

 Tested the functionality of the network to ensure seamless communication.

I was tasked with setting up computers by connecting hardware devices, including Ethernet cables.

Afterward, I tested the functionality of the network to ensure seamless communication between

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devices. Repeated setups during the week enabled me to handle computer installations and network

tests with precision and speed.

Week 6: Keystone Repair and Maintenance

 Fixed faulty keystones in the S.M.S (Sec. & Management Studies) lab to ensure proper

connectivity.

 Tested all keystones to verify functionality after repairs.

I was assigned to fix faulty keystones in the Sec. & Management Studies lab. I ensured that all

keystones worked properly by testing them after the repairs. This task was repeated on multiple ports

throughout the week, improving my troubleshooting and repair skills.

Week 7: Troubleshooting and Maintenance

 Identified faulty computer devices and returned them to stores for replacement or repairs.

 Resolved issues with failed system updates and ensured successful installations.

 Traced damaged network cables, replaced them, and terminated the new connections.

I was tasked with identifying faulty computer devices and returning them to stores for repairs or

replacements. I also resolved issues with failed system updates, ensuring successful installations.

Additionally, I traced damaged network cables, replaced them, and terminated the new connections.
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The repetitive troubleshooting and maintenance tasks allowed me to handle these issues efficiently by

the end of the week.

Week 8: Database Management and Office Support

 Fixed Unify AP (Access Points) at the FBMS (Faculty of Business and Management Studies).

 Installed MySQL for database management and created sample databases with columns and tables

for queries.

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3.0 COMPETENCIES / SKILLS ACQUIRED

Week 1: CAT-6 Cable Stripping and Termination

During this week, I acquired skills in:

 Stripping Ethernet cables and arranging wires according to standard color codes.

 Terminating and testing network cables to ensure connectivity.

 Developing precision and attention to detail while handling delicate cabling tasks.

Week 2: System Security Updates

This week helped me gain competencies in:

 Performing system security updates on thin client computers.

 Verifying and documenting security patch installations.

 Enhancing my understanding of system vulnerabilities and how to secure systems effectively.

Week 3: System Testing and Deployment

I acquired the following skills during this week:

 Creating and managing user accounts in a virtual environment.

 Installing and configuring servers and network switches in a rack.

 Improving my cable management techniques for better system organization.

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Week 4: Network Configuration and Monitoring

This week allowed me to develop skills in:

 Configuring networks and testing internet speed for optimal performance.

 Monitoring and performing system updates to ensure network security.

 Gaining insight into network performance metrics and troubleshooting techniques.

Week 5: Computer Setup and Network Testing

During this week, I gained competencies in:

 Setting up and configuring computer hardware, including connecting Ethernet cables.

 Testing and troubleshooting network connectivity issues.

 Strengthening my ability to handle hardware installations and network assessments.

Week 6: Keystone Repair and Maintenance

I acquired the following skills:

 Troubleshooting and repairing faulty keystones in the SMS lab.

 Ensuring proper functionality of network ports after repairs.

 Sharpening my problem-solving and repair skills for network components.

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Week 7: Troubleshooting and Maintenance

This week enhanced my skills in:

 Identifying faulty computer devices and handling replacements or repairs.

 Troubleshooting system update failures and ensuring successful installations.

 Tracing and replacing damaged network cables, improving my diagnostic and repair abilities.

Week 8: Database Management and Office Support

I developed the following competencies:

 Installing MySQL and creating sample databases with columns and tables for queries.

 Troubleshooting internet connection issues and providing technical support in the office.

 Enhancing my understanding of database management systems and their practical applications.

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 CHAPTER THREE

CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION

3.0 CONCLUSION

The industrial attachment at the ICT Directorate of Koforidua Technical University was an invaluable

experience that significantly contributed to my academic and professional growth. Over the eight

weeks, I was exposed to a wide range of practical tasks and responsibilities, all of which were

designed to enhance my technical expertise and align with the objectives of my Bachelor of Science in

Business Information Systems (BSc. BIS) program. The structured assignments, coupled with hands-

on training, provided me with a solid foundation in real-world ICT operations and reinforced my

classroom knowledge. The tasks I performed were highly appropriate and relevant to my course of

study. My program emphasizes key areas such as systems analysis, networking, database management,

and IT support services, all of which were integral to the responsibilities assigned to me during the

attachment. For instance, working on CAT-6 cable stripping and termination, network configuration,

and troubleshooting tasks provided me with a deeper understanding of networking concepts and the

practical skills necessary for maintaining and improving network infrastructure. Similarly, activities

such as installing MySQL, creating sample databases, and performing system updates directly related

to the coursework on database systems and system security.

Moreover, the repetitive nature of some tasks, such as system security updates and troubleshooting

network issues, allowed me to build efficiency and confidence in performing these tasks, which are

crucial skills for IT professionals. These activities mirrored real-world scenarios I may encounter in

my future career, offering me a practical perspective on problem-solving and technical support.

The experience also enabled me to appreciate the importance of teamwork and effective
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communication within a professional setting. Collaborating with the ICT Directorate's staff and

seeking guidance when necessary enhanced my interpersonal skills and taught me the value of a

coordinated approach to project execution. Additionally, I gained insights into time management and

prioritization, as balancing multiple tasks within specified timeframes was a recurring aspect of the

attachment. To a significant extent, the tasks I performed were aligned with the learning outcomes of

my BSc. BIS program. They provided an excellent platform to apply theoretical knowledge in a

practical environment, bridging the gap between academia and industry. This alignment has not only

deepened my understanding of various ICT concepts but also prepared me for the challenges of

working in the ICT sector.

In conclusion, my industrial attachment at the ICT Directorate of Koforidua Technical University was

a fulfilling and enriching experience. It strengthened my technical competencies, improved my

problem-solving abilities, and gave me a clearer perspective on how to apply my academic knowledge

in real-world scenarios. I am confident that the skills and insights gained during this internship will

serve as a strong foundation for my future endeavors in the field of business information systems.

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 3.1 RECOMMENDATION

Industrial attachment is a critical component of academic programs, as it provides students with

practical experience and prepares them for future professional roles. To make industrial attachment

programs more effective, several measures can be implemented.

Firstly, organizations hosting interns should introduce structured orientation programs at the start of

the internship. This will familiarize students with the organization’s mission, values, work culture, and

operational expectations. A well-conducted orientation allows interns to better understand their roles

and adapt more quickly to the work environment. Providing interns with a variety of tasks and

opportunities for rotation across departments or roles can significantly enhance their learning

experience. Exposure to different tasks enables interns to develop diverse competencies and gain a

comprehensive understanding of the organization's operations. Task variety also helps interns identify

their areas of interest and potential career paths.

Additionally, Guided supervision and mentorship are essential to an effective industrial attachment.

Interns should be paired with experienced mentors or supervisors who can provide ongoing guidance,

monitor their progress, and offer constructive feedback. This mentorship creates a supportive learning

environment, ensuring that interns can maximize their growth and development during the program.

Another crucial recommendation is to strengthen the collaboration between educational institutions

and host organizations. Aligning the tasks assigned during internships with the students’ academic

curriculum will ensure that the experience reinforces theoretical knowledge through practical

application. This alignment bridges the gap between classroom learning and workplace demands.

Furthermore, host organizations should ensure that interns have access to the necessary tools,

resources, and training to perform their assigned tasks effectively. Providing relevant software,
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hardware, and other resources enhances productivity and creates a conducive environment for skill

development.

Finally, a structured feedback and assessment mechanism should be established. Supervisors should

regularly evaluate the interns' performance and provide actionable feedback to help them improve.

Educational institutions can incorporate this feedback into their evaluation processes, ensuring that the

internship serves as a meaningful component of the academic program.

By implementing these recommendations, industrial attachment programs can become more impactful,

equipping students with the skills and experiences needed to thrive in their chosen careers.

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