The University of Ghana has recently demonstrated its commitment to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship with the third edition of its Student Enterprise Pitch Event, part of the Student Venture Support Programme (SVSP), commonly referred to as ‘Demo’ Day.
This year’s event highlighted the remarkable progress of student entrepreneurs selected from a competitive pool of 23 teams across the University of Ghana, with five standout teams ultimately presenting their innovative solutions to a panel of distinguished judges and a captivated audience.
The event, organized by the Office of Research, Innovation, and Development in collaboration with Imperial College London and Impact Hub Accra, highlighted the university’s strategic plan to provide transformative experiences for students.
In the opening address at the event, Pro Vice Chancellor for Research, Innovation, and Development, Professor Felix Ankomah Asante, emphasized the vital role of entrepreneurship in fostering a resilient society that can adapt to future challenges.
” Innovation has enabled the introduction of groundbreaking solutions to challenges facing innovation and it has also improved upon living standards and fueled a vibrant and resilient society that can adapt to Future needs and opportunities I am optimistic that the Innovative project that will be pitched today would make a positive impact on society”
The keynote address was delivered by the Chief Technology Officer of Fresh Check and an alumnus of Imperial College London, Dr. John Simpson, who shared his entrepreneurial journey and highlighted the importance of learning from failure.
“We did countless more failures throughout this journey, But with each setback, we adapted and improved. Startups are an adventure filled with failures, so be willing to fail. It’s an immensely rewarding process, so enjoy every second of it.”
Out of the 23 groups, five exceptional teams stood out, impressing the judges and audience with their groundbreaking ideas. Each of these teams focused on critical aspects of sustainability and social impact:
- Upcraft: This team tackled plastic pollution by transforming recovered plastics into eco-friendly products such as woven bags and jewelry, turning waste into valuable consumer goods. The team included Ms. Chelsie Selby, an Accounting student; Ms. Afari Phyllis Kobeh, a Nursing student; Ms. Priscilla Ogor from UGBS; and Mr. Sydney Cudjoe, an Accounting student.
- Ecofiber Solutions: Focused on reducing reliance on single-use plastics by creating biodegradable food packaging from plant residues. The team not only supports sustainability but also promotes local agricultural practices. Members included Mr. Godsway Kwame Awusi, a Biochemistry student; Ms. Ernestina Baidoo, a Soil Science student; and Mr. Edwin-Williams Gadabor, an Agricultural Extension student.
- Agriovate Fermiopeutics: This team worked on improving food safety and public health through innovative antibacterial mixtures designed to combat antimicrobial resistance in poultry farming.
- Todeka Enterprise: This team impressed the judges with their initiative to produce high-quality palm oil, free from harmful additives like Sudan IV, while minimizing post-harvest losses. The team included Ms. Bernice Forson, a Biochemistry and Nutrition student; Ms. Paulina Toudeka, a Public Administration and Information Studies student; and Ms. Josephine Toudeka, a Biological Science student.
- Abukay Plastics: Their “plastics-for-food” initiative allows individuals and organizations to exchange used recyclable plastics for Abukay products, such as natural fruit juice, local drinks, fruit ice popsicles, and savory snacks. This initiative promotes recycling while addressing nutritional needs.
The panel of judges included Ms. Enyonam Kakane, Executive Director of Mirepa Group; Ms. Sarah Ranchev-Hale, Head of Imperial Enterprise Lab; Mr. Kelechi Ofoegbu, Chief Operations Officer at Impact Hub Accra; and Mr. Kwesi Appiah Okrah ESQ, an accomplished law and finance professional.
After rigorous presentations and analysis, Ecofiber Solutions emerged as the winner, receiving a cash prize of GHS 40,000. The second-place position, with a cash prize of GHS 15,000, was awarded to Todeka Enterprise
In her remarks, Vice-Chancellor of the University, Professor Nana Aba Appiah Amfo, reiterated the University’s commitment to providing an enabling environment for students to innovate and embrace entrepreneurship. She also expressed her profound gratitude to Imperial College London and Impact Hub Accra for their collaboration
“We believe that nurturing student businesses is not just an addition to academic excellence but a vital component. Our mission extends beyond imparting knowledge; we aim to equip our students with the skills, mindset, and resilience needed to thrive in the ever-evolving global landscape. This commitment to innovation and entrepreneurship is made possible through the invaluable support of our partners. Your collaboration has been instrumental in shaping this programme, bringing in expertise, resources, and global perspectives that enrich our students’ learning experiences.”
Professor Amfo also urged participants to embrace the opportunity to showcase their passion and trust in the knowledge and skills they have acquired.
“Winning the ultimate prize will undoubtedly provide a significant boost to your startup. However, the true value lies in the experience you gained, the mentorship you received, and the connections you made. These are the building blocks that will help you turn your dreams into reality.”
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Story by : Cindy Selasi Humade | univers.ug.edu.gh
