The Africa Health Collaborative at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation has concluded a 10-day Sustainable Business Start-Ups (SBS) training programme aimed at equipping students with practical skills to turn ideas into viable enterprises.

The programme which is in third year is under the Health Entrepreneurship pillar led by Prof. Wilberforce Owusu-Ansah. It brought together students from multiple disciplines, with sessions covering design thinking, business model development, pitch presentations and sustainable enterprise planning.

Erica Dzaho, a final-year Media and Communications student, said the training had changed her approach to entrepreneurship.

“One of the things that stood out was how to develop a simple business plan and pitch slides using the design thinking process. It has helped me to create sustainable ideas while incorporating the voices of my audience,” she said.

Biological Science student John Ahenkora said he had learned to apply the hybrid business model canvas.

“Entrepreneurship is not just about being born with a talent, but about tackling challenges with the willingness to solve real problems,” he said.

For Economics student Abiba Iddrisu, founder of local snacks brand Daco Vital, the training broadened her perspective.

“I thought entrepreneurship was just about producing and selling. Now I know it’s about identifying problems on the ground, studying customers carefully and providing relevant solutions that create impact,” she said.

First-year Dietetics student Cobblah Eyram Christabel said she entered the programme without a business idea but left with confidence.

“Now, I know how to innovate, use the design thinking process, and even apply tools like image theatre. I’m going home with a wealth of entrepreneurial knowledge,” she said.

At the closing ceremony, Project Manager Mrs. Eva Boakye-Yiadom urged participants to apply what they had learned.

“We are looking for people who will come together and propose solutions to the numerous challenges facing our country,” she said.

She noted the testimony of a participant who had never considered starting a business but now felt empowered to do so.

“That will be the story of many gathered here,” she added. “Going forward, take what you have learned into your businesses and careers and go out there to make an impact.”

Mrs. Boakye-Yiadom said the programme marked the start of the students’ entrepreneurial journeys.

“This is an opportunity for you to work harder, refine your ideas and come back to pitch. We look forward to helping you grow your businesses and become true entrepreneurs,” she said.