843 scholars enrolled in the Mastercard Foundation Program at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) are benefiting from short courses in practical skills.
Beneficiaries will develop diverse skills applicable to the business world as a result of this training. Beneficiaries from around Africa enrolled at KNUST were given the opportunity to get insight into various academic disciplines. Annually, the KNUST Centre for Capacity Building and Innovation (CCBI) facilitates a 4-day training program. Dr. Yaw Amo Sarpong, coordinator of the CCBI, feels the program will increase students' abilities to serve their respective societies.
"There are a total of 843 attendees, who will be grouped into plenaries where they can attend classes of their choosing. We provide these programs to students because we must increase our capabilities in all disciplines. If you look at the pupils present, you will notice that they are all writing theses. After graduating from school, you may find yourself working in a non-traditional field.
"If these students graduate with an understanding of and expertise in subjects beyond their field of study, they will be able to integrate into society and their job schedules," he said.
He continued, "We are examining research methodology and systematic review, an introduction to participatory planning, monitoring, and evaluation, and occupational health and safety courses, proposals, and research grant writing.
"I participated in the core classes where we discussed research methodologies, and in the breakout sessions where we wrote proposals and grants. I believe it is beneficial because I have applied for funding and am awaiting a favorable response.
"As an aspiring entrepreneur, I must be familiar with grant and proposal writing. So far so wonderful. I now comprehend when I must compose recommendations for NGOs, the government, and community stakeholders.
"As an entrepreneur, I must engage the community, understand what they want, and supply them with what they need. As was the case last year, I anticipate extremely positive comments, said Fauziatu Mohammed, a senior Food Science and Technology student. Kasim Chiekha, a 400-level Marketing student, described how the curriculum has affected his life over the years.
"Recently, my friends and I participated in a bush-burning effort in the Sisala East District. We educated locals on the disadvantages. I believe that our ability to successfully penetrate the community and complete the project was a result of the training I received. This year, my short course will be in project management. The field of project management is in high demand. In the end, I hope to acquire the necessary abilities to make a difference in my community," he explained.
