UEIC NSS Acceleration Program Final Pitch: A Triumph of Innovation and Entrepreneurship
On Wednesday, August 30th, 2023, the UEIC (University of Professional Studies, Accra Enterprise and Innovation Center) marked a significant milestone by hosting the final pitch of its second NSS (National Service Scheme) acceleration program for the second NSS cohort. This transformative event took place on the fifth floor of the UPSA (University of Professional Studies, Accra) Joshua Alabi Library – PhD lecture hall, commencing at 10:30 a.m. The gathering saw over 60 attendees, primarily comprising students eager to witness the entrepreneurial endeavors of their peers.
The orchestrator and driving force behind this exceptional program, Mr. Twum Obed, the administrative assistant and facilitator, played a pivotal role in its planning, organization, and coordination. His tireless efforts ensured the seamless execution of the event and contributed significantly to its resounding success.
The master of ceremonies, Mr. Muniru, a respected lecturer at the university, commenced the proceedings by inviting Mr. Opoku Anthony, a distinguished NSS personnel, to initiate the program with an opening prayer. Following this solemn moment, Prof. Fidelis Quansah, the Dean of the Faculty of Management Studies and a valued member of the management board of the UEIC, delivered her opening remarks. In her address, she provided a concise history of the UEIC and elucidated the purpose behind the gathering.
The program boasted an esteemed panel of judges, consisting of industry experts and academics, who played a pivotal role in evaluating the pitches. The panel included Mr. Richard Osei-Owusu, Prof. Abigail Opoku Mensah, Dr. Nana Yaa Serwaa Sarpong, Oxford Bonsu, and Ama Amoah, each bringing a wealth of experience and insight to the proceedings.
As the program unfolded, each NSS participant was allotted a five-minute slot to present their innovative business ideas, followed by a rigorous 20-minute session dedicated to questions and suggestions from the astute panel of judges. The array of business profiles and their visionary founders were as follows:
NECOSHELLZ (Abena Pokuwaa Poku): This venture focuses on recycling waste materials into high-quality accessories such as bags and bracelets.
BHELLACHINS (Belinda Tandoh): This enterprise transforms highly nutritious farm produce into healthy snacks and beverages.
TP HORTICULTURE (Anthony Opoku): Leveraging fish waste for vegetable production in a sustainable, interdependent cycle.
ALES COSMETICS (Ahafia Lucy Eyram): Offering top-notch organic skincare and haircare products enriched with nourishing shea butter and captivating fragrances.
RUUGEE AUTOMOTIVE (Akua Gyamfi): Providing an innovative e-commerce platform connecting spare parts dealers with customers.
CATCH-FISH FARMS (Kwamina A. Forson): A pioneering aquaculture startup specializing in the organic rearing of catfish.
SAYFHAUZ (Anani Francisca Delali): Offering storage solutions tailored to the needs of tertiary students.
PHINISCO FOODS (Darkwa Edmond Phinihas): Providing a diverse range of Gari and Shito products.
ETCHES AND EVOLUTION GHANA (Fianya-Sedegah Sandra): Dedicated to the development and management of brand identities for businesses, professionals, and talented individuals.
Upon the conclusion of these dynamic pitches, participants received commendations from the judging panel for their impressive presentations and conduct. Mr. Richard Osei-Owusu, in a motivational address, encouraged all participants and attendees to nurture their entrepreneurial spirits, recognizing it as the driving force behind success. As a token of appreciation, citations were presented to the esteemed judging team, acknowledging their invaluable contributions.
Joyland Mensah, a student of the university, closed the event with a heartfelt closing prayer, bringing the proceedings to a fitting conclusion. The atmosphere was charged with excitement and gratitude as attendees seized the opportunity for group photos, symbolizing the successful culmination of this enriching and impactful program.
