The World University Service of Canada (WUSC), in partnership with Valley View University (VVU) with support from Master Card Foundation has held a graduation ceremony for participants of its Activate Short Courses (Cohort 1) at the Valley View University (VVU) Techiman Campus in the Bono East Region
The event, held on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, celebrated the successful completion of practical skills training by beneficiaries drawn from Techiman and surrounding communities.
The short courses, designed to equip participants with employable and entrepreneurial skills, focused on areas such as poultry, mushroom production, vegetable farming, and web design. Beneficiaries were taken through hands-on training, including agribusiness practices, food processing, and digital skills development.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Rector of VVU Techiman, Dr. Amponsah Kodom Micheal, described the program as a transformative initiative aimed at empowering young people for self-reliance.
“This is a skills training program that we are partnering with the World University Service of Canada, with sponsorship from Mastercard International,” he stated.
He explained that the program is inclusive and not limited by academic background, adding that participants are only required to be 35 years or younger, with a strong focus on women.
“The program runs for three to four months. For the first cohort, we offered training in poultry, mushroom production, vegetable farming, and web design,” he noted.
Dr. Kodom further disclosed that the program is fully funded by Mastercard, with beneficiaries receiving all necessary tools and meals throughout the training period.
“This program comes at no cost to participants. WUSC provides all the required tools, and trainees are also given meals during the training period,” he added.
He revealed that beneficiaries are also supported after graduation with start-up packages to enable them establish their own businesses.
In a related development, a representative of the Techiman South Municipal Chief Executive, Hon. Adjei Mensah, Dr. Awal Mohammed, commended the initiative and encouraged the youth to take advantage of future opportunities.
Dr. Awal Mohammed, who serves as the Deputy Director-General in charge of Operations at the Ghana Standards Authority (GSA), expressed satisfaction with the outcomes of the program.
“I am highly impressed with what I have witnessed here today. The motive behind this program is truly commendable,” he stated.
He urged eligible youth in Techiman to enroll in subsequent cohorts, stressing that the initiative provides a valuable platform to acquire practical skills that can significantly improve livelihoods.
Graduates expressed appreciation to the organizers for the opportunity, noting that the training has equipped them with skills to start and manage their own businesses.
The ceremony also featured an exhibition of products by participants, showcasing the practical knowledge acquired during the program.
Source: Elvisanokye.com