Embrace innovation to build sustainable businesses — Entrepreneurs advised
The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Rigworld Group, Dr Kofi Amoa-Abban, has advised the youth to embrace innovation and strategic networking as pathways to sustainable entrepreneurial success.
He said true innovation extended beyond creating technologies, therefore, young entrepreneurs must identify and address local market gaps through improved service delivery and collaborative approaches.
The advice comes at a time when Ghana’s unemployment rate remains a significant concern, with many young people seeking alternative pathways to economic empowerment through entrepreneurship.
“Innovation does not always mean inventing new technologies. Sometimes, it is about offering a better service, filling a local gap, or finding smarter ways to collaborate,” he said.
Forum
Dr Amoa-Abban gave the advice in his keynote address at the opening of the 2025 Graduate Practitioners’ Forum in Accra last Friday on the theme: “Dynamic Strategies for Global Industry Leadership”.
The two-day forum, which was organised by the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA) School of Graduate Studies for final-year students, aims to equip graduates with practical insights and professional skills for career advancement and real-world success.
Other speakers at the forum were the acting Deputy Managing Director of the Ghana Airport Company Limited (GAGL), Obuobia Darko-Opoku, and the Director of the UPSA Centre for International Education and Collaboration (CIEC), Ivy Heward-Mills.
Solving problems
He further challenged the youth to shift their focus from seeking social media influence to becoming practical problem-solvers who can contribute meaningfully to Ghana’s economic development.
“There’s too much pressure to look successful instead of becoming successful. Focus on the work, build relationships and keep learning.
“Ghana needs more problem-solvers, not just more influencers,” he stated, highlighting the country’s need for entrepreneurs who could address real challenges facing communities and industries.
The Vice-Chancellor of UPSA, Professor John Kwaku Mensah Mawutor, urged students and young professionals to prioritise adequate preparation as the cornerstone of career success.
He explained that in today’s competitive job market, preparation extended beyond academic qualifications to include practical skills, networking and continuous learning.
“Therefore, those who consistently prepare themselves are better positioned to recognise and capitalise on career-defining moments when they arise,” he added.
Rationale
The acting Dean of Graduate School at UPSA, Dr Linda Narh, explained that the forum was designed to provide practical insights into corporate world opportunities and challenges while offering students direct interaction with industry experts.
According to Dr Narh, the initiative formed part of the comprehensive training programme for graduate students at UPSA, reflecting the institution’s commitment to “Scholarship with Professionalism”.
She stressed that the university’s approach went beyond traditional academic learning to ensure real-world preparation through meaningful engagement with industry leaders.