Nestlé and the University of Ghana have signed a two-year renewable agreement to offer students practical learning opportunities to enhance their skills in the area of nutrition, science and technology.

This is at the core of bringing to life Nestlé purpose of “enhancing quality of life and contributing to a healthier future”.

The partnership which is the first of its kind within the Central and West Africa Region where Nestlé has been functional in over 62 years, will support mutually agreed initiatives including scientific research collaborations that responds to the needs of consumers and industry; and student practical study in relation to the food and nutrition value chain.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Philomena Tan, Managing Director of Nestlé Ghana highlighted the relevance of youth in sustaining economic development of nations. “Young people, when given the right opportunities to learn become assets to society and contribute to developing nations with their ingenuity and skills set. This partnership with the University of Ghana, will offer students additional opportunities to improve their skills and practically apply the knowledge that will benefit industry and society at large”.

While the partnership forms part of Nestlé’s commitment to youth development under “Nestlé’s Global Youth Initiative ” which aims to help 10 million young people have access to economic opportunities by 2030, it also aligns with the University of Ghana’s mission of creating an enabling environment that is increasingly relevant to national and global development through high quality teaching and learning.

The Pro-Vice-Chancellor, Student and Academic affairs of the University of Ghana, Prof. Samuel Kwame Offei was optimistic the partnership with Nestlé would provide students of the University with opportunities for experiential learning and the necessary industry expertise as they enter the world of work. He was excited with the prospects of the partnership and engagement with Nestlé, which he said looks promising.

The agreement was signed by the Pro-Vice-Chancellor, Student and Academic affairs of the University of Ghana, Professor Samuel Kwame Offei, the Managing Director of Nestlé Ghana, Philomena Tan, and the Program Manager, Société Des Produits Nestlé SA.