Universities

UG Partners GNCCI to Launch Junior Chamber for Student Entrepreneurship

23rd June 2025

The University of Ghana and the Ghana National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GNCCI) have joined forces to launch the UG-GNCCI Junior Chamber. The initiative aims to address graduate unemployment through mentorship, entrepreneurship, and industry partnerships.

🤝 Strategic Partnership to Bridge Academia and Industry

The University of Ghana (UG) has partnered with the Ghana National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GNCCI) to establish the UG-GNCCI Junior Chamber, a pioneering initiative designed to equip students with entrepreneurial skills and industry readiness.

This joint effort is expected to become a game-changing response to the nation’s growing graduate unemployment challenge.

🎯 Mentorship and Skills for a Changing Job Market

During a courtesy call on the Vice-Chancellor of UG, Prof. Nana Aba Appiah Amfo, the President of the Chamber, Mr. Stephane Meizan, underscored the importance of aligning student aspirations with Ghana’s economic development goals.

“This Junior Chamber will not only inspire entrepreneurship among students but will also offer mentorship, practical business training, and support systems to help them transition from learning to earning,” Mr. Meizan emphasized.

🎓 A Boost for Transformative Student Experience

Prof. Amfo praised the initiative as one that aligns perfectly with the university’s strategic goals, particularly its pillars on Transformative Student Experience and Engagement and Partnerships.

“This initiative is a strong reflection of our vision to develop globally competitive graduates who can innovate and thrive in today’s dynamic economy,” she stated.

🧭 Rollout Begins Ahead of July Launch

The UG Careers and Counselling Directorate, led by Dr. Gladys Setordzie, has started a series of awareness campaigns, in collaboration with the University of Ghana Business School (UGBS) and the Students’ Representative Council (SRC).

Dr. Setordzie confirmed that the official launch of the UG-GNCCI Junior Chamber is scheduled for 2nd July 2025, with activities expected to run throughout the academic year.

🌍 Broader Implications for Graduate Employability

The partnership between academia and the private sector through this Junior Chamber reflects a growing recognition that universities must do more than just impart knowledge—they must prepare students to lead in innovation, entrepreneurship, and self-employment.

The initiative will also support Ghana’s broader youth employment agenda under national policy frameworks such as the YouStart programme and the Youth Employment Agency (YEA) Job Centres.

📸 Launch Event Coming Soon!

Stay tuned for full coverage of the official launch on July 2nd, including interviews, student testimonials, and partnership commitments from key stakeholders.