November 12, 2024 marked a monumental day for the National Academy of Students’ Achievement Awards Ghana (NASAAG) as it successfully piloted the maiden edition of its flagship programme, the Students Start-Up Empowerment and Business Pitch Challenge. In collaboration with the office of the Dean of Students at the Ghana Communication Technology University (GCTU), this groundbreaking event set yet another new standard for empowering young entrepreneurs within the academic community.
The inaugural event brought together an audience of over 120 enthusiastic student participants, eager to learn and showcase their innovative business ideas. Among them, ten male and female students presented creative, forward-thinking business pitches that captivated the audience and judges alike.
Equipping Students for Success
As part of the programme, participants benefited from intensive training sessions focusing on “Developing Skills, Business Ideation, and Development.” These workshops equipped attendees with essential tools to navigate the entrepreneurial landscape, emphasizing creativity, resilience, and practical skills to build sustainable businesses.
Highlighting Outstanding Student Entrepreneurs
The business pitch contest was the event’s centerpiece, and three student-led enterprises emerged as shining stars:
My Coco Stuff Gh (Winner): A physically challenged male student’s innovative idea clinched the top spot. His venture received a GHS ₵1,000.00 start-up support fund and a business referral opportunity, generously sponsored by the Agyei Empire Foundation.
FixiMami (2nd Place): This team of two male and one female tech students impressed the judges with their tech-driven solution. They were rewarded with MiFi devices and a three-month free internet package, courtesy of Data Warehouse.
The 10k Wardrobe (3rd Place): A female student-led business producing organic hair treatments and cosmetics secured third place. She also received a MiFi device and a three-month free internet package, sponsored by Data Warehouse.
Vision 2030: Agenda 20 by 2030
NASAAG’s vision for the Students Start-Up Empowerment and Business Pitch Challenge is bold and transformative. The initiative aims to empower five student start-ups annually, with the ultimate goal of supporting 20 student businesses and enterprises by 2030. This effort aligns with NASAAG’s broader mission to tackle the pressing issue of graduate unemployment by fostering a culture of entrepreneurship and innovation.