Support for Student Innovators at KNUST: Unlocking Entrepreneurial Potential: Are you a forward-thinking student at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) with a passion for innovation and entrepreneurship? Great news! Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology is committed to supporting your entrepreneurial dreams and helping you turn your innovative ideas into reality. Good news, right? Now let us brief you on some of the programs that support your ideas and will help you bring them to life.
Support for Student Innovators at KNUST
Welcome to KNUST, where innovation thrives! Here, students are more than just learners; they’re creators and future leaders. KNUST is committed to fostering entrepreneurship among its students. Join us as we explore some of the support available.
KNUST Innovation Centre
The College of Engineering at KNUST has recently launched the Innovation Centre, a state-of-the-art facility designed to foster innovation, entrepreneurship, and research excellence among students and staff. This Centre, envisioned by former Provost Professor Samuel Innocent Kofi Ampadu and brought to life by the contributions of subsequent Provosts, including Professor Mark Adom-Asamoah and current Provost Professor Kwabena Biritwum Nyarko, is a testament to the university’s dedication to quality education and innovation.
The Innovation Centre is more than just a building; it’s a vibrant community where young innovators can access essential resources, mentorship, and a collaborative environment to develop industry-ready skills and launch successful ventures.
Mastercard Foundation’s SBS Training Programme
In addition to the Innovation Centre, KNUST is a proud partner of the Mastercard Foundation Africa Higher Education Health Collaborative. This initiative focuses on building the capacity of healthcare students and professionals, equipping them with entrepreneurial skills to meet the growing demand for primary healthcare and achieve universal health coverage.
The Sustainable Business Start-Ups (SBS) Training Programme is a bespoke initiative aimed at empowering students to create scalable health-related businesses. Participants receive comprehensive training in entrepreneurship, connect with industry experts and mentors, and have opportunities to secure funding for their innovative ideas.
The SRC’s “Think It, Fund It” Initiative
The Students’ Representative Council (SRC) at KNUST is also playing a pivotal role in fostering student entrepreneurship. The 2022/23 SRC, led by President Frank Owusu, has donated Two Hundred and Five Thousand Ghana Cedis (GH₵205,000) to support student entrepreneurs through the “Think It, Fund It” initiative. This initiative aims to develop budding entrepreneurs during their academic journey, helping to reduce graduate unemployment.
A dedicated Selection Committee meticulously reviews applications, and successful candidates receive funding to kickstart their ventures. Here are some of the innovative projects supported by the “Think It, Fund It” initiative:
- O’livia App by Ampadu Michael Gyamfi: A digital solution to improve accessibility to essential medications.
- Dielle by Deborah Jessica Oppong: Premium hair care products adhering to the highest quality standards.
- Atlabs by Acquah Andrews: Tech-driven solutions for community challenges.
- Dapper Deft by Dzakpasu Joseph Elikplim: Eco-friendly fashion brand.
- ProFeeds Ghana by Clement Akornor: Transforming food waste into premium animal feed.
- Joy Beauty Lounge by Joyce Mensah: Wig making and beauty services.
- Eco-Plas Energy by Emmanuel Nimoh: Recycling plastics into fuels.
Join the Movement!
KNUST is dedicated to nurturing and supporting the ambitions of future business leaders. Whether through the Innovation Centre, the Mastercard Foundation’s SBS Training Programme, or the SRC’s “Think It, Fund It” initiative, there are numerous opportunities for you to develop your entrepreneurial skills and make a significant impact.
Don’t let your innovative ideas remain just ideas. Take advantage of these initiatives and resources, and embark on your entrepreneurial journey today. The future of innovation and entrepreneurship at KNUST is bright, and you can be a part of it!
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