UESD, MasterCard Foundation launch 10-year Nkabom Project to create 3m jobs by 2030

The University of Environment and Sustainable Development (UESD) in Somanya has launched the Nkabom Project. This initiative, in partnership with the MasterCard Foundation, aims to tackle environmental sustainability and youth unemployment in Ghana.

The project will run for 10 years. It aims to provide dignified work for three million young Ghanaians by 2030. The focus is on converting agricultural waste into valuable resources and improving aquaculture practices.

At the launch event in Koforidua, UESD Vice-Chancellor Prof. Eric Nyarko-Sampson spoke about the project's goals. He said it would serve as a model for agro-waste transformation and aquaculture innovation in Ghana and beyond.

Prof. Nyarko-Sampson emphasized that the project aligns with UESD's mission. He noted that many view agricultural products as waste but they can be transformed into useful products. He highlighted that the Eastern Region contributes 40% of inland fishing in Ghana, making it ideal for training.

He also mentioned that UESD plans to offer expert training in agro-waste management across the country. Academic programs on effective agro-waste management are expected by year-end.

Prof. Edward Wiafe Debrah, Pro-Vice Chancellor of UESD, discussed employment opportunities from the project. He stated it would equip Ghanaians with skills to add value to agro-waste.

He stressed that training would be inclusive and available to all Ghanaians. The goal is to help people gain entrepreneurial skills rather than rely on traditional jobs through agro-waste processing or aquaculture technology.