CKT-UTAS, KIC Partner to Nurture Ghanaian ‘Agripreneurs

A groundbreaking partnership between C.K. Tedam University of Technology and Applied Sciences (CKT-UTAS) and Kosmos Innovation Center (KIC) was officially cemented on March 18th with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding. This strategic alliance aims to nurture a new generation of agricultural entrepreneurs, dubbed ‘agripreneurs,’ and drive innovation within Ghana’s agriculture value chain.

The MoU was signed by Mr. Benjamin Gyan-Kesse, Executive Director of KIC, and top officials from CKT-UTAS – Acting Vice-Chancellor Prof. Samson A. Abagale and Registrar Mr. Gilbert Ansoglenang – at KIC’s head office in Accra.

Addressing the gathering, Prof. Abagale underscored the initiative’s importance in combating post-harvest losses, a longstanding challenge in northern Ghana. “It is widely known that in Northern Ghana, vegetables and perishable foods often spoil on the farms,” he said. “Therefore, we are committed to developing innovations that will extend the shelf life of these products.”

The partnership’s origins can be traced back to February 5th, when a KIC team, led by Business Development Manager Mr. Titus Michael Beyuoh, presented a proposal to CKT-UTAS officials. The proposal outlined plans to roll out agricultural value chain programs within the university’s catchment area and the North East Region.

Under this collaboration, CKT-UTAS will host the “AgriTech Challenge Classic and Pro” competitions, joining 15 other universities and agricultural colleges across Ghana. These challenges aim to cultivate a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship among individuals aged 18 to 35 who are passionate about transforming the agricultural value chain.

Participants will have the opportunity to pitch their innovative ideas and compete for substantial cash prizes ranging from $10,000 to $50,000. Furthermore, they will gain access to invaluable mentorship through an intensive incubation program designed to nurture and scale their ventures.

CKT-UTAS’s strategic location and academic excellence made it an ideal choice to host these challenges and serve as a beacon for the North East Region. “CKT-UTAS embodies the spirit of innovation and academic excellence,” remarked Mr. Beyuoh. “By participating in the AgriTech Challenge Classic and Pro programs, we aim to empower a new generation of ‘agripreneurs’ who will lead sustainable development in the Region and beyond.”

The partnership also seeks to address youth unemployment by involving community members and creating employment opportunities through the agricultural value chain initiatives.

With the MoU now in place, CKT-UTAS and KIC are poised to establish an innovation center on campus, fostering a conducive environment for aspiring agripreneurs to thrive and contribute to the region’s economic growth.

Also read: AfDB To Partner BUK In Achieving Food Security Using Technology

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