Accra, Ghana — October 2025:
The School of Business, University Career Services, and CARES at Valley View University (VVU) have successfully hosted a series of high-impact programs under the theme, “Development of Entrepreneurial Skills through Networking Relationships in the 21st Century.”
The initiative, held from October 12 to 24, 2025, brought together budding entrepreneurs, industry professionals, and distinguished scholars to inspire and equip students with the practical skills and networks required to thrive in today’s competitive business landscape.
General Seminar
The program commenced with the arrival of Prof. Sanda Maiduc, who delivered an insightful keynote address titled “From Idea to Impact: Turning Vision into a Thriving Enterprises.” Prof. Sanda Maiduc challenged participants to start small, overcome their fear, leverage on the power of teams, and purpose-driven entrepreneurship, emphasizing that “Africa’s transformation lies in the hands of those who dare to turn ideas into lasting impact and legacy.”
An Inspiring Speaker and Thought Leader
Participants were further energized by a dynamic session led by an accomplished entrepreneur:
Mr. Franklin Karikari, who delivered an engaging presentation on “Startup Success Blueprint: Building, Scaling, and Thriving,” and “Innovation, Networking, and Startup Growth,” sharing his journey and strategies for navigating the entrepreneurial lifecycle and encouraging participants to be innovative, creative, work on what they are comfortable at, what is sustainable, maximize their time, improve competency, cashflow, and consistency. This session concluded by a question-and-answer time.
The Bootcamp Competition: Turning Ideas into Action
A major highlight of the program was the Maiden Bootcamp Business Plan Competition, held from October 20 to 23, 2025. Twelve teams of student entrepreneurs presented innovative business solutions addressing real-world challenges. After rigorous mentorship and evaluation, three exceptional teams emerged winners:
- First Place (GHS 15,000): Green Gold Ghana Ltd – For a groundbreaking solution in sustainable agribusiness.
- Second Place (GHS 10,000): Nortey Mush: – For an innovative healthy food.
- Third Place (GHS 5,000): Fresh Start – For a creative and tech grooming business.
The total budget for the event was funded by Valley View University, reflecting the University’s firm commitment to nurturing entrepreneurship and innovation among students.
Beyond the Classroom: Academic Engagement and Practical Exposure
The two-week program also featured interactive sessions with business plan candidates (October 14–15) and a General Seminar (October 16), providing valuable exposure to real-world entrepreneurial challenges.
It concluded with an fun trip to Afrikico on October 24, 2025, where participants interacted with organizers, mentors, and contestants to unwind, network, and celebrate the successful completion of the program in a relaxed, social setting.
Anticipated Outcomes and Institutional Impact
Through this initiative, the School of Business, University Career Services, and CARES have:
- enhanced students’ entrepreneurial skills and critical thinking abilities.
- improved networking relationships between academia and industry.
- strengthened VVU’s role as a hub for innovation, leadership, and ethical business development in Ghana.
A Word from the Acting Dean
Speaking at the closing ceremony, the Acting Dean of the School of Business expressed gratitude to the facilitators, judges, and participants, stating:
“VVU School of Business is committed to empowering young people with the skills, mindset, and network needed to turn ideas into thriving enterprises” He added, “At Valley View University, we do not just educate minds — we inspire creativity and courage to build”.
This program reflects our steadfast belief that entrepreneurship is not merely about profit, but about purpose, problem-solving, and people.”
About Valley View University
Valley View University continues to uphold its mission of being a center for value-based Christian education that produces ethical, innovative, and service-oriented leaders for Africa and beyond. Through initiatives like the entrepreneurship bootcamp and seminar, the University remains dedicated to empowering students to transform their ideas into impact, and their dreams into sustainable enterprises.
The program concluded with a fun trip to Afrikico, offering participants exposure to real-world business environments and networking opportunities.
Through this initiative, Valley View University continues to affirm its commitment to developing visionary, ethical, and innovative leaders equipped to drive sustainable growth across Ghana and Africa.